Marco Silva Laments Imminent Loss of Iwobi, Bassey, Chukwueze to AFCON 2025

Fulham manager Marco Silva has voiced his frustration ahead of the Africa Cup of Nations, as three of his key players — Alex Iwobi, Calvin Bassey, and Samuel Chukwueze — prepare to join Nigeria’s squad for the 2025 tournament.

The trio was officially named in the Super Eagles’ AFCON list by head coach Eric Chelle on Thursday. With the competition running from December 21, 2025, to January 18, 2026, the three players could be away for up to a month if Nigeria advance to the final.

Silva, who has leaned heavily on all three players this season, admitted the club will feel their absence deeply.

“We are talking about three starting XI players,” the Portuguese coach said. “We know Alex is a key player in any position he plays. The importance of Calvin, and what Chukwueze has been doing in recent games. You have to find solutions. If you know any other way to handle it [AFCON], let me know.”

Iwobi’s midfield intelligence, Bassey’s defensive steel, and Chukwueze’s explosive wingsplay have played major roles in Fulham’s impressive run this season, making their temporary departure a significant blow for Silva’s plans.

Opinion: AFCON Absences Expose a Familiar Premier League Tension — But Also a Hidden Opportunity

Silva’s frustration is understandable — losing three influential starters in the middle of the season can destabilize even the most well-structured squad. But his irritation also reflects a long-standing Premier League tension: clubs want African stars for their talent but often complain when these same players answer the call of national duty.

AFCON, unlike the Euros or Copa America, takes place during the European season, forcing teams to adapt quickly. But rather than seeing it purely as a setback, Fulham could treat this period as an opportunity for growth.

Silva has shown repeatedly that he can develop players and restructure his squad on the fly. This could be a chance for fringe players to step into the spotlight, prove themselves, and expand Fulham’s tactical options.

For Iwobi, Bassey, and Chukwueze, AFCON is not a distraction — it’s an honour, a stage where careers are reborn and legacies are built. And if any of them return with confidence, momentum, or even a trophy, Fulham may ultimately benefit.

Silva’s challenge now is to survive the storm — and perhaps discover new strengths in the process.