Samuel Chukwueze could be sidelined for at least two months with a left hip problem, potentially ruling him out of the Super Eagles’ crucial 2026 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) qualifying doubleheader against Tanzania in November.
According to Italian newspaper Corriere della Sera, the AC Milan winger has undergone a specialist consultation for the injury and started a course of injections. He is expected to be reassessed in 10 to 15 days, but is not anticipated to return to action before the end of the year.
Chukwueze sustained the injury during Milan’s 3-2 victory over Atalanta, in which he started and played for 53 minutes before being replaced by Omari Hutchinson. The Nigerian subsequently missed the club’s Europa League defeat to Bournemouth.
The setback comes as a disappointment for the 27-year-old, who had made an encouraging start to the season. Deployed as a right wing-back by Ruben Amorim, Chukwueze has featured in eight matches across all competitions, providing two assists.
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His injury rules him out of Milan’s Serie A clash against Udinese on Sunday and could also see him miss a demanding run of fixtures, including the derby against Inter Milan on October 31.
The winger’s expected absence until the end of the year also makes him unlikely to be available for Nigeria’s 2026 AFCON qualifying doubleheader against Tanzania on Friday, November 13, and Tuesday, November 17.
The Super Eagles will host the Taifa Stars at the Godswill Akpabio International Stadium in Uyo before travelling to Tanzania for the return fixture a few days later.
The doubleheader carries significant importance for Nigeria, who currently sit second in Group L with three points from their opening two matches, having recorded one win and one defeat.
With Tanzania already assured of a place at the tournament as co-hosts, only one team from the group will secure the remaining qualification spot, leaving Nigeria needing to finish top to book their ticket to the 2026 AFCON.
With qualification hanging in the balance, Chukwueze’s potential absence could be a significant miss for Eric Chelle’s side as they prepare for two decisive encounters.
The winger’s creativity and attacking threat would have offered Nigeria an additional option in the final third, and his unavailability could further complicate the Super Eagles’ preparations for a doubleheader in which there is little room for error.
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