Pioli explains why Chukwueze was ‘sacrificed’ against Juve: 'I preferred Pulisic'

Samuel Chukwueze remained on the bench against Juventus until the 83rd minute, despite AC Milan’s struggles in the attacking phase. After the game, Stefano Pioli explained his decision not to give the Nigerian more space. 

Chukwueze has been in positive form the last few weeks, starting to show his true qualities after a very tough start to the season. However, competing with Christian Pulisic on the right flank, he hasn’t always been given the chance.

After the 0-0 draw against Juventus, sending Chukwueze on with seven minutes to go, Pioli was asked about the winger’s situation in his post-match interview. He stated that it was mainly because he didn’t want to play with one less midfielder.

“I preferred Pulisic instead. Chukwueze is also doing well but at the moment, I won’t give up an extra midfielder to play with four attacking players and therefore, Chukwu is the one who was sacrificed,” he stated.

Pulisic didn’t have a whole lot to work with, in fairness, but his performance also wasn’t electric and one could argue that the substitution should have been made at half-time. With four games remaining, it remains to be seen what choices will be made.