Fulham Loan Offers Chukwueze Career Reset

Super Eagles wide attacker Samuel Chukwueze has disclosed that irregular selection and limited involvement slowed his development during his spell in Italy, before a temporary switch to Fulham helped him regain sharpness and confidence.

The winger moved to Fulham on a one-year loan arrangement from AC Milan during the most recent transfer window, with the English club holding a clause that allows them to make the deal permanent. Transfer specialist Fabrizio Romano revealed that the full valuation of the agreement could surpass €25m.

Chukwueze’s departure followed a frustrating two-year stay at the San Siro, having arrived from Villarreal in 2023 after Milan paid €20m for his services. During the 2024/25 league season, the Nigerian struggled for consistent starts, featuring in 26 Serie A matches but beginning only nine, with total playing time standing at 918 minutes. He finished the campaign with three goals and two assists.

That return fell well below the standards he set in Spain, where he spent five seasons as a regular contributor at Villarreal. His time in England has been more productive, as he has recorded two goals and four assists in nine appearances for Fulham, with the majority of those involvements coming shortly before he left club duty for international assignment at the Africa Cup of Nations.

The 26-year-old is currently representing Nigeria at the AFCON in Morocco and has spoken about his Italian experience, his renewed momentum in England, and the possibility of playing in other European leagues later in his career. He explained that the physical tempo and freedom of the Premier League align more closely with his strengths than the tactical demands he encountered in Italy.

Although now wearing Fulham colours, Chukwueze made it clear that his connection to AC Milan has not been severed. He described the club and city as deeply important to him, noting that his family still resides there and that his contractual ties remain intact due to the loan arrangement.

He also shared optimism regarding Milan’s current campaign, expressing confidence in their ability to sustain strong performances and secure a top-four league finish, while also believing they remain capable of challenging for the title if their current form continues.

At the ongoing continental tournament, Chukwueze played a key role in Nigeria’s opening victory against Tanzania, featuring for 59 minutes in the match.