‘We have different scenarios and AFCON’ – Fulham manager worried about losing Iwobi, Bassey and Chukwueze
Fulham manager Marco Silva has confirmed the club is actively planning for the January transfer window, with the club set to lose Alex Iwobi, Calvin Bassey and Samuel Chukwueze to AFCON.
Iwobi and Bassey have been mainstays for the Cottagers this season, with both Nigerian internationals featuring in every Premier League match under the Portuguese coach.
Chukwueze, a summer loan signing, has also made a significant impact, notably providing the assist for Raul Jimenez’s winning goal against Sunderland.
Not only that, he played an important role in Fulham’s 2-1 victory over Tottenham on Saturday night at Tottenham Stadium
Silva speaks on losing three-star players to AFCON
Silva acknowledged that losing the trio to the tournament in Morocco presents a “major challenge” for his squad.
Fulham boss Marco Silva || Imago
He emphasised that existing injuries and depth concerns make winter reinforcements crucial to maintaining team stability and avoiding a potential relegation battle.
In an interview with Sky Sports, Silva made it clear that recruitment plans are a top priority for the club’s hierarchy.
Alex Iwobi for Fulham || Image credit: Imago
“It is not just clear from my side but everyone in the club, what is necessary and what we are going to try and do in the next window,” he stated. “Let’s see what we can do in the market because it will be important to act in the window.”
The manager highlighted that discussions about strengthening the team are a daily occurrence, driven not only by lessons from the summer but also by current circumstances.
Samu Chukwueze. (Photo Credit: Fulham/X)
“We have been speaking every single day. Myself, with the CEO of the club, it is clear,” Silva added. “It is not just because of last summer.
“We have some injuries that create different scenarios and AFCON, we are going to lose three players.”
Nigeria’s Calvin Bassey.
Nigeria, who finished as runners-up in the previous tournament, are expected to call upon all three players for their campaign.
The Super Eagles are drawn in Group C with Tanzania and Uganda and will be looking for a strong showing after failing to qualify for the 2026 World Cup.
