AC Milan have confirmed that Samuel Chukwueze underwent successful surgery in London to repair a ruptured tendon of the tensor fasciae latae muscle in his left hip, leaving the Nigeria winger sidelined until the close of 2025.

The Serie A club announced on Wednesday that the procedure was carried out by Professor Ernest Schilders, with Dr Stefano Mazzoni in attendance. AC Milan's official statement confirmed the operation went smoothly and that Chukwueze returned to Italy the same day to begin his rehabilitation programme.

Injury blow for Nigeria

The 27-year-old's absence deals a significant blow to Nigeria, who face a 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifying double-header against Tanzania's Taifa Stars in the coming weeks. Chukwueze will not be available for either fixture.

He sustained the injury last month during preparations for AC Milan's UEFA Europa League match against Bournemouth — a setback that cuts short what had been a promising start to the season for the former Villarreal man.

A season interrupted

Chukwueze had returned to AC Milan in encouraging form following a loan spell at Fulham, registering two assists across eight appearances in all competitions for the Rossoneri before the injury struck.

Milan and the Nigeria camp will now hope his rehabilitation goes without complication, with both club and country eager to have the winger back fit and available as soon as possible.