Nigerian football sensation Samuel Chukwueze has expressed his admiration for former
Real Madrid winger Arjen Robben and the valuable lessons he has learned from studying
the Dutchman’s playing style.
Chukwueze has incorporated elements of Robben’s game into his own, resulting in noticeable improvements in his performance.
Chukwueze’s fascination with Robben is evident in his meticulous analysis of the former
Chelsea player’s highlights, where he carefully dissects every move and decision on the
field. He openly acknowledges Robben as an inspiration and one of the greatest players in
the sport.
In a recent interview with El Pais, Chukwueze shared the valuable lessons he has learned
from observing Robben’s style.
One notable aspect that impressed the Nigerian winger was Robben’s ability to consistently break through defenses, even when opponents were aware of his intentions.
“What I learned from Robben is that even though all the defenders knew what he was
going to do, whenever he received the ball, he went inside,” Chukwueze explained.
“He hooked to his left and fired. It was fantastic. So fast! The defenders thought, ‘I
know what he does, but maybe not today.’ And he did it again! Defences have blood in
their veins too, they feel the need to move, and that leads them to deception.”
Samuel Chukwueze also revealed his approach when faced with defenders who choose to retreat
instead of engaging him directly. In such situations, he exploits the opportunity by using the ball to approach the defenders.
Chukwueze’s skills were on full display at the Santiago Bernabeu, Robben’s former home
ground, this season when he scored two goals, leading Villarreal to a memorable victory
over Real Madrid.
Chukwueze cleverly ponders, “When the defenders back up, I use the ball to go get
them. How far is he going to go back? Up to his goal?”
Following this outstanding performance, there were rumors linking Chukwueze with a move to Real Madrid during the upcoming summer transfer window. However, the Super Eagles star has dismissed these reports, stating that he has not received any offers from the former UEFA Champions League winners.
