Niclas Füllkrug’s difficult loan spell at AC Milan looks set to end without a permanent move, with the West Ham United striker now facing growing criticism over his performances in Italy.
The Germany international joined Milan in December in a deal designed to strengthen their attacking options, but his impact has been limited — both in terms of minutes and output.
With the season nearing its conclusion, a return to West Ham United now appears increasingly likely.
AC Milan spell fails to revive Niclas Füllkrug form
Füllkrug’s move to AC Milan was initially seen as an opportunity for a fresh start.
Milan were struggling for consistency in attack and needed a reliable focal point. However, the reality has been different.
The 33-year-old has started only a handful of matches and has largely been used as a backup option under Massimiliano Allegri.
While he did score a late winner against Lecce, moments like that have been rare. A missed penalty against Pisa further added to a frustrating spell.
From Milan’s recent matches, the attacking structure has often looked disjointed — and Füllkrug has struggled to impose himself within it.
Criticism grows as Niclas Füllkrug told to “look in the mirror”
Former Germany international Patrick Helmes has delivered a blunt assessment of Füllkrug’s situation.
Speaking to MilanNews, Helmes made it clear that responsibility lies primarily with the player.
“Füllkrug should take a look in the mirror.” — Patrick Helmes
He suggested the striker has not taken his opportunities and must accept accountability for his performances.
Helmes also questioned whether Füllkrug can still perform at the highest level abroad, pointing to a lack of consistency over the past two seasons.
That criticism reflects a wider narrative.
Return to Bundesliga being suggested
Helmes went further by recommending a return to Germany as the best path forward.
The Bundesliga is seen as a more natural fit for Füllkrug’s style of play, where he previously enjoyed success.
However, even that option comes with uncertainty.
At 33, the striker is entering the final phase of his career, and his recent struggles in both England and Italy have raised doubts over whether he can regain his previous level.
Why AC Milan are unlikely to keep Füllkrug
Milan are expected to reshape their attack this summer.
Reports suggest the club are prioritising younger profiles, which makes a permanent move for Füllkrug unlikely.
That decision is not based solely on his performances.
The broader attacking issues at Milan — including inconsistent service and tactical imbalance — have affected several forwards.
| Stat (2025/26 loan spell) | Niclas Füllkrug |
|---|---|
| Starts | 2 |
| Goals | 1 |
| Key moments | Late winner vs Lecce |
| Status | Likely to return |
source: match data – 5 May 2026
That context matters.
Füllkrug has not been the only player struggling in Milan’s system.
Key insights
- Niclas Füllkrug is likely to return to West Ham after his AC Milan loan
- The striker has struggled for starts and consistency in Italy
- Patrick Helmes has criticised his performances publicly
- AC Milan are expected to target younger attackers this summer
- A return to Germany has been suggested as a possible next step
What’s next?
Füllkrug is expected to rejoin West Ham at the end of the season, where his future will need to be reassessed.
A permanent move elsewhere could still be explored, particularly if interest emerges from Germany.
For now, clarity will likely come later in the transfer window.
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