“Going to be stronger” – Fulham boss Silva eager to have Chukwueze, Iwobi, Bassey back after AFCON 2025

Fulham head coach Marco Silva has expressed his eagerness to welcome back Super Eagles stars Alex Iwobi, Calvin Bassey, and Samuel Chukwueze after their third-place play-off at the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations on Saturday.

​Most English Premier League clubs lost key personnel to countries participating in the 2025 AFCON, and the Cottagers were no exception.

Three of their Nigerian contingent — Bassey, Chukwueze, and Iwobi — were called up to represent the Super Eagles in the tournament.

Unfortunately for Silva, all three were in excellent form and integral to his starting lineup prior to their departure.

​Despite their absence, the Cottagers have fared remarkably well. In fact, Fulham have lost just one of their last seven games in all competitions while playing without the Nigerian trio.

​The players are expected to return to West London shortly though, as Nigeria conclude their campaign against Egypt in the third-place match on Saturday. This will be their final fixture before flying back to England.

​Silva is upbeat about their return and discussed it during his pre-match press conference ahead of Fulham’s Premier League clash against Leeds United.

What Fulham boss Silva Said About The Return of His Super Eagles Contingent

Silva noted that the return of his Super Eagles trio would make the team stronger, as they head into the last four months of the season.

“This is the last game the three players at AFCON will miss…,” Silva said, per Jack Kelly. 

“When you have all the squad available, you're going to be stronger as a team. Like when Kenny, King or Muniz will be back – they will be very important for us.”

After the third-place, Bassey, Iwobi, and Chukwueze are expected to leave Morocco together immediately.

As such, they should be available for Fulham’s game against Brighton ar Craven Cottage on January 24.