Samuel Chukwueze undergoes successful hip surgery in London, ruled out of Nigeria’s AFCON 2027 qualifiers

Super Eagles winger Samuel Chukwueze has undergone successful surgery in London to repair a hip injury, ruling him out of Nigeria’s upcoming Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) qualifying double-header against Tanzania.

The AC Milan forward required an operation after sustaining a ruptured tendon of the tensor fasciae latae muscle in his left hip in October, bringing an abrupt end to an encouraging start to the campaign.

Chukwueze had been making progress at the Italian club under former Manchester United manager Ruben Amorim, having adapted impressively to a new wing-back role.

The 27-year-old Nigerian international had registered two assists in eight appearances across all competitions for the Rossoneri before the injury disrupted his momentum.

His absence has already affected Milan, with the former Villarreal attacker missing several important fixtures, including matches against Udinese, Inter Milan and Bologna, as well as their encounter against Bournemouth.

AC Milan confirmed the successful procedure in an official statement, revealing that the winger underwent surgery in London to address the injury.

The operation was performed by Professor Ernest Schilders, with Stefano Mazzoni, a member of the club’s medical team, also in attendance.

Chukwueze will now return to Italy to begin his rehabilitation programme as he targets a full recovery.

The surgery represents a significant interruption for the winger, who had begun establishing himself in a different position and contributing to Milan’s attacking play.

Surgery rules Chukwueze out of Nigeria’s AFCON qualifiers

The timing of the injury means Chukwueze will be unavailable for Nigeria’s upcoming double-header against Tanzania in the AFCON qualifiers.

His absence is a setback for Super Eagles head coach Eric Chelle, who must now prepare for the crucial fixtures without one of his attacking options.

The Nigerian international’s versatility and attacking contributions had made him an important option for both club and country.

With his recovery now taking priority, Chukwueze will miss the opportunity to feature in the two encounters as Nigeria continue their pursuit of qualification for the continental tournament.

Chelle will have to explore alternative attacking options as he seeks to maintain the Super Eagles’ momentum in the qualifying campaign.

Rehabilitation begins after encouraging Milan spell

Before the injury, Chukwueze had enjoyed a promising period at AC Milan, particularly after adapting to his new responsibilities as a wing-back.

His work rate and attacking output had caught attention, with two assists in eight appearances highlighting his contribution during the opening stages of the campaign.

However, the hip injury has interrupted that progress, forcing him to undergo surgery and begin the process of returning to competitive football.

Following the successful operation, the winger is expected to continue his recovery in Italy under the supervision of Milan’s medical team.

Although the surgery has been completed successfully, no specific return date has been established in the information provided.