Chukwueze Not Yet Ready for Premier League Debut, Says Fulham Boss

Fulham manager Marco Silva has revealed why Super Eagles winger Samuel Chukwueze was not included in the squad for his side’s recent match against Leeds United. Silva explained that Chukwueze, who joined the club on loan from AC Milan, arrived late in the summer transfer window and had not yet settled. Silva noted: “Before they go in, they need to understand what they have to do in each moment of the game… he doesn’t even know the names of all his teammates.”

Chukwueze only managed two training sessions with the Fulham squad after returning from international duty before the Leeds game, making it difficult for him to earn selection. Silva also highlighted off-field factors, such as relocating and settling in, as part of the reason for withholding him from matchday involvement.

Editorial

We believe Fulham’s cautious approach to gradually integrating Samuel Chukwueze is a smart, long-term strategy. Chukwueze is a talented striker with the ability to make a big impact, but rushing him into first-team action without proper preparation risks disrupting his acclimatisation and placing unnecessary pressure on a player who has just moved to a new club and country. By prioritising his readiness over immediate deployment, Fulham are showing an understanding that success abroad depends not just on ability, but on how well a player adapts to new rhythms both on and off the pitch.

That said, the decision also speaks to a broader challenge facing modern footballers transitions between clubs, leagues, and cultures are seldom straightforward, especially when international commitments intervene. Chukwueze’s move to London late in the transfer window and his subsequent trip with Nigeria meant he had little time to adjust to Fulham’s tactics, teammates, and lifestyle. This underscores how international breaks can sometimes clash with domestic ambitions, particularly for players in transit between teams.

We also feel it highlights an important message for fans and pundits: patience is essential. Talent alone does not guarantee instant success. Allowing Chukwueze time to settle, train, and build relationships may delay his debut, but it increases the likelihood that, when he does step onto the Premier League stage, he is in the right frame of mind physically, tactically, and mentally. Doing so could yield a more consistent, confident performer over the course of a season, rather than a flash-in-the-pan debut followed by a period of struggle.

We believe Fulham are taking the correct path in holding off on Chukwueze’s debut. When he is eventually introduced, it will be better to see a player who is fully ready this approach may well pay dividends in the long run, both for the club and for Chukwueze himself.

Did You Know?

1. Chukwueze joined Fulham on a season-long loan from AC Milan on September 1, 2025, with the option to buy.
2. He flew to Nigeria for international duty shortly after his move, which limited his chances to train with Fulham before their match against Leeds United.
3. Marco Silva said Chukwueze “doesn’t even know the names of all his teammates”  a pointed comment on how late arrival and limited training time affected his readiness.
4. Chukwueze had just two training sessions with Fulham following his return before the match, which Silva cited as insufficient preparation.
5. Fulham will next face Brentford in the Premier League, where Chukwueze could be considered for selection now that he has had more time to settle.