Fulham manager Marco Silva has expressed concern over the prospect of losing loanee Samuel Chukwueze for at least 15 days due to the upcoming 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON).

Chukwueze came off the bench during Fulham’s Premier League clash with Manchester City on Tuesday and scored twice, marking his first brace for the club. Despite his heroics, Fulham fell 5–4 at Craven Cottage.

The Nigerian international is expected to carry his impressive form to the Super Eagles camp ahead of AFCON, set to begin on December 21 in Morocco.

Following the defeat, Silva praised Chukwueze’s performance but expressed frustration at the impending absence of his star winger:

“He’s getting better and better. Unfortunately, we’re going to lose him in 15 days, like we have three times in the last three months. Until then, we have to get the best from him and hope we can do it on Sunday again,” Silva told Fulham’s official website.

The result intensified the title race, with Manchester City cutting Arsenal’s lead at the top of the Premier League table to just two points.

Former Tottenham goalkeeper Brad Friedel believes City are now back in contention and could overtake Mikel Arteta’s side later in the season. Speaking to talkSPORT after City’s win, Friedel said:

“I think Man City will catch Arsenal. Arsenal are playing the best football right now, but come March and April, with European and FA Cup commitments and potential injuries, City, who have recovered from their recent dip, will start closing the gap.”

Arsenal will look to maintain their lead when they host Brentford tonight at 8:30 p.m. A win would restore the Gunners’ five-point cushion at the top.