Super Eagles: Two potential replacements for Uche at Getafe after injury setback

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Spanish side Getafe have suffered a major blow ahead of the 2026-27 season, with Super Eagles midfielder Christantus Uche set to miss the entire campaign due to injury, Afrik-Foot reports.

The 23-year-old was stretchered off during Getafe’s pre-season friendly against Monaco on Thursday after suffering a nasty challenge from Monaco defender Christian Mawissa.

Reports have since revealed that Uche sustained multiple injuries to his right knee, including serious damage to his ligaments and meniscus. He is expected to undergo surgery and faces a lengthy recovery that will rule him out of the upcoming season.

It is a major setback for the Super Eagles midfielder, who was hoping to use the new campaign to revive his career after a disappointing loan spell at Crystal Palace last season and was also looking to regain his best form and potentially attract interest from clubs elsewhere.

Christantus Uche transfer
Christantus Uche. Copyrigh: IMAGO

Uche’s injury also comes as a blow to his hopes of returning to the Super Eagles setup under Eric Chelle ahead of the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers.

With the versatile midfielder now ruled out for a lengthy period, Getafe could be forced to look for another attacking option, especially with the new La Liga season just around the corner. 

Afrik-Foot takes a look at two Super Eagles players who could provide Getafe with quality options in Uche’s absence.

1. Chidera Ejuke

Sevilla forward Chidera Ejuke is one player Getafe could consider as a replacement for Uche. The Nigerian forward has faced uncertainty over his future this summer, with Sevilla reportedly open to letting him leave as they look to raise funds and ease their financial situation.

While countryman Akor Adams has already secured a move to newly promoted Serie A side Venezia, Ejuke remains at Sevilla with no agreement yet reached with any of his interested suitors. Belgian side Anderlecht have shown strong interest in the winger, but a deal has not been completed. 

Super Eagles and Sevilla stars Chidera Ejuke and Akor Adams
Chidera Ejuke and Adams. Copyright: xAndresxLopezxSheridanxx/IMAGO

Getafe’s need for a replacement could now provide Ejuke with another potential destination. The 28-year-old would be an attractive option because of his availability, experience and knowledge of La Liga. He already plays in Spain and would not need much time to adapt to the league.

Ejuke usually operates from the left wing, a position where Uche also featured regularly for Getafe despite his versatility. His pace and direct style could make him a suitable replacement in that area.

A move to Getafe could also appeal to Ejuke, particularly if it gives him regular playing time and an opportunity to revive his career and push for a return to the Super Eagles squad.

2. Samuel Chukwueze

AC Milan forward Samuel Chukwueze is another Super Eagles star Getafe could consider. The former Villarreal winger has been linked with a return to Spain this summer after returning to the Serie A giants following his loan spell at Premier League side Fulham.

Super Eagles and AC Milan forward Samuel Chukwueze
Super Eagles and AC Milan forward Samuel Chukwueze. Copyright: xFabrizioxAndreaxBertanix IMAGO

The English club decided against making his move permanent, forcing Chukwueze to return to Milan. Although he has featured under Ruben Amorim during pre-season, doubts remain over his long-term future at the club.

Chukwueze has also been used in a different role during pre-season, with Amorim deploying him more as a wing-back in some matches. His work rate and ability to operate in wider areas could make him an interesting option for Getafe.

The Nigerian forward also has La Liga experience from his time at Villarreal, where he established himself as one of the league’s most exciting wingers and a move to Getafe could also make sense for Chukwueze if he is looking for regular playing time and a chance to rebuild his confidence after an inconsistent spell at AC Milan.

Ejuke or Chukwueze: Who should Getafe sign?

Both players would give Getafe quality options, but Ejuke could be the more realistic choice. The Sevilla winger could be available for a lower fee, while convincing AC Milan to part with Chukwueze could prove more complicated and expensive.

Ejuke also has the advantage of currently playing in La Liga and would require less time to settle into Getafe’s system.

Chukwueze, however, offers greater experience at the top level and has already shown what he can do in Spain. His pace and ability to play in different positions could also give Getafe more tactical options.

Super Eagles and Sevilla forward Chidera Ejuke
Super Eagles and Sevilla forward Chidera Ejuke. Copyright: xAntonioxPozox/IMAGO

If Getafe are looking for a direct replacement for Uche on the left side and want a player who already knows La Liga, Ejuke could have the edge.

Uche, meanwhile, will now maintain focus on his recovery as he prepares for a lengthy spell on the sidelines.

<!-- Author Start -->Ayomide Oguntimehin<!-- Author End -->

Ayomide Oguntimehin

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Ayomide Oguntimehin is a CAF-accredited sports journalist and Editor at Soccernet.ng & Afrik Foot. Ayomide has worked with Sports Brief, Naija News and served as Social Lead Editor at Legit.ng. He has also featured on Goal, TVC News, Sports Mole, Topmercato, and Milan News24, among others. He holds a master’s degree and is currently pursuing a PhD. Follow Ayomide on X: @ayo_oguntimehin.