Samuel Chukwueze is a professional soccer player for AC Milan of Serie A. He formerly played for Villarreal FC of Spain's La Liga. A native of Umuahia, Nigeria, Chukwueze also plays for the Nigeria national team. In May of 2019, Chukwueze was invited to represent the team at the Africa Cup of Nations, where he scored his first senior goal in Nigeria’s 2–1 win over South Africa. Chukwueze was named the Nigeria Football Federation’s 2018 Young Player of the Year and is on the Golden Boy 2019 nominees shortlist. On September 20, 2018, Chukwueze made his Villarreal debut in a 2–2 home draw against Rangers during the 2018-19 UEFA Europa League. Before this, the right wing was a part of the club’s youth setup, where he made his senior debut with the reserves in April 2018. Chukwueze played for Nigeria at the under-17 level and was a member of the 2015 FIFA U-17 World Championship team. Chukwueze began playing football at the age of eight and was mentored by Diamond Football League Academy general manager, Prince Victor Apugo.
