Many were surprised when the former Villareal man was called up by the Super Eagles coach for the 2025 Unity Cup, but he was a different maker in both games as Nigeria claimed the title at the Gtech Community Stadium.
Chukwueze’s delivery against Ghana led to Nigeria’s second goal in the semi-final and his brilliant strike against Jamaica gave Nigeria the lead in the final, before he was withdrawn with seven minutes left on the clock.
In the last two games, Chukwueze has accounted for 20% of the total goal contributions he’s amassed from 47 Super Eagles games, signifying a notable improvement
Eric Chelle, in the 2025 Unity Cup, tried different formations in the two games the Super Eagles played in Brentford, but instead of fielding Chukwueze on the familiar right flank, the Malian tactician played the Milan winger down the middle in the number 10 role.
In that role, Chukwueze looked like his old self, and was unplayable, creating chances, and getting a goal for himself. The 26-year-old linked up brilliantly with the midfield and Cyriel Dessers and could be poised for a re-invented role under Eric Chelle.
While one could argue about the standards of the teams the 2015 FIFA U-17 winner shined against aren’t top-notch, his rejuvenation will be one to watch when the Serie A season kicks off in August, if he’ll still remain at the San Siro.
