Chukwueze starts recovery after hip surgery

Super Eagles winger Samuel Chukwueze is back in Italy to begin his recovery after a successful surgery on a torn tendon in his left hip. His return to playing might be pushed to 2027, according to PUNCH Sports Extra.

AC Milan shared this news in a statement. They said the surgery happened in London and was done by Professor Ernest Schilders. Dr Stefano Mazzoni, the club’s doctor, was also present during the operation.

“AC Milan announces that Samuel Chukwueze has undergone surgery in London to repair a ruptured tendon in the tensor fascia latae muscle in his left hip. The surgery, performed by Prof. Ernest Schilders in the presence of Dr. Stefano Mazzoni, was a complete success.

“The footballer will return to Italy, where he will begin his rehabilitation process,” the club stated.

But Chukwueze’s recovery might take longer than expected. Gazzetta dello Sport reported that he may not be ready to start training by December.

Milan has not given an official date for his return. Earlier reports suggested that he might be out until 2027 due to the injury.

Before the injury, Chukwueze had a promising start to the 2026/27 season. He played seven league games and assisted twice. He also played once in the Europa League.

Chukwueze joined Milan from Villarreal in the summer of 2023. However, he had a hard time settling in at the club. He was then loaned to Fulham last season.

While at Fulham, he made 23 appearances in the Premier League, scoring three goals and assisting four times. He built a strong connection with fellow Nigerians Alex Iwobi and Calvin Bassey.

After Fulham chose not to activate the €26m buy option in his loan deal, he returned to Milan. Since coming back, he has been eager to show his worth under coach Reuben Amorim.