‘Give Samuel Chukwueze time’ — Marco Silva begs for patience after EFL Cup cameo debut

Fulham manager Marco Silva has urged patience with Super Eagles winger Samuel Chukwueze following his first appearance for the Cottagers.

Chukwueze, who joined the west London club this summer on a season-long loan from AC Milan, had been made to wait for his debut, missing out on Fulham’s previous two fixtures despite being eligible.

The 26-year-old was finally introduced on Tuesday night in the third round of the EFL Cup against Cambridge United.

On comes Samuel Chukwueze for his debut. 🇳🇬👏

He replaces Adama, while Josh King is on for Reedy. 🔄

— Fulham Football Club (@FulhamFC) September 23, 2025

“First minutes for Samuel Chukwueze,” Silva said afterwards. “He needs more time with us and more time on the pitch because he can give us good things too. It’s always good when you give time to adapt and understand better.”

Chukwueze’s numbers on his debut for Fulham

The Nigeria winger came on in the 60th minute to replace Adama Traoré, marking his first appearance under Silva after being an unused substitute in the 3-1 Premier League win over Brentford last weekend.

In his half-hour cameo, Chukwueze registered 15 touches, completed seven of eight passes, succeeded with one long ball, but failed with both of his attempted crosses. He also won two of his three duels but managed no shots and was unsuccessful with his only dribble attempt.

Fulham sealed their progress with a 66th-minute goal from Emile Smith Rowe, who converted Timothy Castagne’s cross from close range.