Amorim Confirms Chukwueze, Cisse, Comotto for AC Milan Pre-Season: A New Beginning

FolioPitch.com – 09 July 2026 | AC Milan head coach Ruben Amorim has confirmed that Samuel Chukwueze, Lamine Cisse, and Alessandro Comotto will be part of the squad for the upcoming pre-season, stating that these players give the team valuable alternatives. The announcement came during a press conference where Amorim outlined his plans to assess the entire roster, including those who spent last season on loan. This move signals a fresh start for several players who could prove pivotal in the new campaign.

Amorim’s statement that Chukwueze, Cisse, and Comotto will be part of the squad for pre-season and provides us with alternatives reflects his desire to explore internal options before looking at the transfer market. The Portuguese coach emphasized the importance of evaluating every player at the club’s disposal, especially those who were absent last season. ‘There are some players who weren’t here last year. Chukwueze is staying with us, we need players who can play one-on-one. Saelemaekers can play left or right; he likes to play one-on-one. Cissè and Comotto will start with us, I don’t know what will happen. We’ll find new players who weren’t here last year. If they play well, if they absorb my ideas, then we’ll find a place for them: before looking outside, let’s look carefully inside,’ Amorim said.

The Nigerian winger Chukwueze, who joined from Villarreal last summer but struggled for consistent game time, is seen as a key asset. Amorim praised his qualities: ‘Chukwueze has great qualities and gives us alternatives.’ The coach also hinted at tactical flexibility, noting that he wants players like Christian Pulisic and Chukwueze to operate between the lines rather than hugging the touchline. This approach could revitalize Chukwueze’s career at Milan, offering him a fresh start under a new system.

Youngsters Lamine Cisse and Alessandro Comotto, both products of Milan’s youth academy, have been given the nod to join the first team during pre-season. Cisse, a midfielder known for his physicality, and Comotto, a dynamic full-back, will have the chance to impress Amorim. Their inclusion underscores the club’s commitment to nurturing homegrown talent while maintaining a competitive edge. As Amorim stated, ‘We’ll evaluate the young players; Chukwueze has great qualities and gives us alternatives.’ This dual focus on youth and experienced players aligns with Milan’s broader strategy.

The pre-season period will be crucial for these players to adapt to Amorim’s philosophy. The coach emphasized that after the pre-season, decisions will be made with an eye on the budget and the owner’s involvement. ‘Then after the preseason we’ll decide, but always with an eye on the budget. The owner is here… [he laughs] We’ll evaluate the young players,’ he added. This pragmatic approach suggests that if Chukwueze, Cisse, and Comotto perform well, they could secure permanent roles in the squad, potentially saving the club from expensive signings.

Amorim’s comments about Pulisic also shed light on his tactical vision. He wants the American to play on the left side with his right foot, but also on the right, always between the lines. This versatility is exactly what Chukwueze offers, making him a valuable alternative. The coach’s confidence in the Nigerian’s abilities is evident: ‘He’s well-liked at the club, and the whole team is behind him to make the most of him.’

In conclusion, Amorim states Chukwueze Cisse and Comotto will be part of the squad for pre-season and provides us with alternatives is a clear signal that AC Milan is looking inward to build a competitive team. By giving these players a chance, Amorim is not only optimizing resources but also fostering a meritocratic environment. The coming weeks will determine whether Chukwueze can reignite his Milan career and whether the youngsters can step up to the senior level. For now, the mantra is clear: before looking outside, look carefully inside.