Samuel Chukwueze celebrating a goal for Fulham during the Premier League season
Fulham head coach Marco Silva is counting down the days to the return of Super Eagles stars Alex Iwobi, Calvin Bassey, and Samuel Chukwueze following the conclusion of the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations in Morocco.
Despite missing three of their most influential players, Fulham have shown impressive resilience in the Premier League, suffering just one defeat in their last seven matches without their Nigerian trio. Still, Silva believes the return of the players will significantly raise the team’s level as the season enters its decisive phase.
Before departing for AFCON duty, Iwobi, Bassey, and Chukwueze were key figures in Silva’s starting XI. Their chemistry, intensity, and individual quality were central to Fulham’s strong performances in the first half of the campaign.
Samuel Chukwueze, in particular, left West London in sensational form. The winger produced a breathtaking display against Manchester City in December, coming off the bench to score a stunning second-half brace in Fulham’s dramatic 5–4 defeat. That performance underlined his growing influence and ability to change games at the highest level.
While Chukwueze faced criticism for a missed penalty during Nigeria’s AFCON semi-final against Morocco, his overall tournament performances reaffirmed his importance to both club and country.
Speaking ahead of Fulham’s upcoming clash with Leeds United, Marco Silva made it clear just how valuable the trio’s return will be.
“This is the last game the three players at AFCON will miss,” Silva said. “When you have all the squad available, you’re going to be stronger as a team.”
Nigeria wrapped up their AFCON campaign with a third-place playoff against Egypt, and the Fulham players are expected to return to London immediately after the tournament. The timing couldn’t be better, with Fulham set to host Brighton at Craven Cottage on January 24 — a fixture that could see all three Super Eagles stars back in action.
As the Premier League season heats up, Fulham fans will be hoping that the return of Iwobi’s creativity, Bassey’s defensive solidity, and Chukwueze’s explosive attacking threat can propel the club to a strong finish.
For Fulham, and for Nigerian football fans watching closely, the Super Eagles are back — and the Premier League is about to feel the impact.
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