The 19-year old has been called up as part of Nigeria ‘s team to face South Africa in a crucial African Cup of Nations qualifying clash and also Uganda in November much to the delight of many.
The former Arsenal target has been a revelation at Villarreal since joining the club following his exploits at the 2015 U17 World Cup in Chile where he won the Bronze Boot. He made his senior debut for the Yellow Submarines earlier this season in their Europa League home game against Glasgow Rangers and made his first start also in Europa League against Spartak Moscow.
Chukwueze continues to grow in stature this term, providing an assist in Villarreal’s 5-0 trouncing of Rapid Wien in the Europa League on Thursday and scoring both goals in Villarreal B’s 2-1 win over Atletico Baleares at the weekend.
Apugo, who was formerly the General Manager of Chukwueze’s former club Diamond Academy Umuahia and now the president of Super Stars Academy Uyo, saw first hand the teenager’s enormous talent and believes the boy is heading to the very top.
He said: “I know Samuel (Chukwueze) very well, he’s my boy so I’m not surprised with his performance. He is a special talent but most importantly he’s very humble.
“At Diamond he was undoubtedly the best player and he showed some of his potentials at the World Cup in Chile. It is not easy to go to a new country (Spain) where you don’t know anybody or understand the language, but he has managed to succeed nonetheless.
“I’m delighted that coach Gernet Rohr has invited him to the Super Eagles where he belongs. I have no doubt Samuel is going to be a very big star and make Nigeria proud,” Apugo concluded.
The former Nigeria U-17, U-20 forward signed for the Yellow Submarines in 2017 and rose through the ranks to the senior team. Last season he scored eight goals for Villarreal’s U19s before being promoted to the team B where he made 11 Segunda B appearances and bagged three goals on their way to the Segunda B play-off final.