Fulham Boss, Silva Explains Bassey’s Limited Minutes Since AFCON 2025

Fulham manager Marco Silva has shed light on why Super Eagles defender Calvin Bassey has struggled for playing time since returning from the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations in Morocco.

Bassey was one of Nigeria’s standout performers at the tournament, earning a place in CAF’s Best XI after featuring in every match except the third-place playoff against Egypt, which he missed due to suspension.

Before his AFCON 2025 call-up, the 26-year-old had been a regular starter for Fulham, missing just one of 16 league games.

Yet since his return, he has managed only four minutes of Premier League action, coming off the bench in the 3-2 defeat to Manchester United at Old Trafford. He was left unused against Brighton and Everton, raising questions about his role in the squad.

Silva explained that while Bassey remains a key figure at the club, Jorge Cuenca’s strong performances in his absence have created fierce competition for places.

‘It’s a great thing for the team. I am the first one praising Calvin’s impact at the club, a great, great centre back. Huge potential to keep growing. Cuenca has stepped in and shown his qualities. It’s a competition, Cuenca knows the pro he’s up against,’ Silva said.

Fulham’s recent 2-1 home defeat to Everton has added pressure on Silva to reassess his defensive setup. Whether he sticks with Cuenca or restores Bassey to the starting lineup remains to be seen, as the club looks to bounce back from consecutive losses.