Rafael Leao, Other Milan Teammates Welcome Chukwueze in Style Following Return From AFCON: Video

Rafael Leao, Other Milan Teammates Welcome Chukwueze in Style Following Return From AFCON: Video

Ero Samson
updated at February 15, 2024 at 8:34 AM
In this article:
CAF Africa Cup of Nations logo
CAF AFCON
Africa
Samuel Chukwueze logo
S. Chukwueze
AC Milan logoFNigeria logo
Rafael Leão logo
R. Leão
AC Milan logoFPortugal logo
AC Milan logo
AC Milan
Italy
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Italian Serie A logo
ITA Serie A
Italy
UEFA Europa League logo
UEFA Europa League
Europe
Monza logo
Monza
Italy
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Sadiq Umar logo
S. Umar
Real Sociedad logoFNigeria logo
Alex Iwobi logo
A. Iwobi
Fulham logoFNigeria logo
Real Sociedad logo
Real Sociedad
Spain
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  • Samuel Chukwueze was an integral part of Nigeria’s Africa Cup of Nations squad
  • The 24-year-old propelled the Super Eagles through to the finals in Ivory Coast
  • The forward’s AC Milan teammate gave him a heroic welcome following his return

The 2023 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) came to an enthralling close on February 11, with host nation, Ivory Coast, clinching the trophy despite their seemingly lacklustre journey to the final.

As the post-tournament celebrations wind down across many nations, players who participated in the tournament are returning to their clubs around the world.

AFCON, Nigeria, AC Milan, Samuel Chukwueze, Rafael Leao
Samuel Chukwueze during training with AC Milan following his return from the Africa Cup of Nations. Image: Claudio Villa.
Source: Getty Images

One such player who recently rejoined his club after his exploits at the AFCON is Nigeria forward, Samuel Chukwueze. The 24-year-old has returned to his Italian club, AC Milan, after helping the Super Eagles reach the final.

Chukwueze, who featured in five of the seven matches played for Jose Peseiro's side, arrived in Milan to resume his club duties as the 2023/24 season heads towards its climax.

However, while his return to the club was expected, it was the manner in which his teammates welcomed him that sparked a flurry of reactions.

How Milan welcomed Chukwueze

As captured by Nigerian football expert, Poojamedia, upon his arrival at the club's training ground, Chukwueze was greeted with warm applause, particularly from Portuguese superstar, Rafael Leao, who was delighted to welcome the Nigerian star and rushed to embrace him.

Subsequently, other teammates, including coach, Stefano Pioli, expressed their excitement at the return of the pacey winger.

Basking in the euphoria of the heartwarming welcome, Chukwueze conveyed a message to the fans of the Serie A giant:

“Hi Milanista, I’m back, and I couldn't be happier. I've missed you all, and I'm eager to pick up right where I left off.”

The forward concluded by expressing gratitude to the fans for their unwavering support during the AFCON.

AC Milan is set to host French side Rennes in the UEFA Europa League knockout round on February 15, a match that may come too soon for Chukwueze. Nonetheless, he will be aiming to return to full fitness in time to contribute to the San Siro giants when they travel to face Monza on February 18.

Super Eagles forward sends warning to Nigerians

In another report, Sports Brief stated that Super Eagles of Nigeria forward, Sadiq Umar, issued a stern warning to fans of the national team regarding their treatment of Alex Iwobi.

The Real Sociedad forward acknowledged that the fans' behaviour was uncalled for and unhealthy. He stressed, however, that anyone who comes to insult him will also receive insults in return.

Authors
Ero Samson photo
Ero Samson
Samson Ero is a sports journalist with a track record of over five years in the Nigerian media industry. He graduated from Nigerian Institute of Journalism (2021-2023).