Chukwueze Fulham performance excites fans as Marco Silva worries over his AFCON departure after scoring twice in 5-4 loss to Man City

Fulham winger Samuel Chukwueze scored twice off the bench to ignite a thrilling fightback in Tuesday’s 5-4 Premier League defeat to Manchester City at Craven Cottage.

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Head coach Marco Silva admitted concern over the Nigerian forward’s imminent departure for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations in Morocco.

Chukwueze’s goals and energetic display helped Fulham recover from 3-0 and 5-1 deficits, almost rescuing a point.

Silva said, “Chukwu is just showing his quality… unfortunately, we’re going to lose him in 15 days like it was three times in the last three months, and that’s a big challenge for us.”

The 26-year-old has contributed two goals and two assists over the last three matches, establishing himself as a key attacking outlet for the London side.

Silva highlighted the difficulty of replacing his speed, creativity, and tactical intelligence during the congested Premier League schedule.

Alongside Chukwueze, fellow Nigerians Alex Iwobi and Calvin Bassey will also be absent for AFCON, leaving Fulham with noticeable gaps in attack and defence.

Silva has carefully managed Chukwueze’s minutes, including benching him for tactical reasons, to maximise his impact and protect his fitness.

Despite the loss, Chukwueze’s rapport with teammates and playful interactions with Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola underscored his growing influence.

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Silva now faces the task of maintaining Fulham’s attacking effectiveness in the winger’s absence.