'Let's cook' - Chef Samuel Chukwueze warns defenders after emotional return to Fulham from AFCON 2025

Returning to West London following Nigeria's third-place finish at AFCON 2025, Super Eagles winger Samuel Chukwueze, was captured in a heartwarming video shared by Fulham, embracing​ staff and teammates at the club's Motspur Park training ground. 

Despite the heartbreak of Nigeria's semifinal exit on penalties to Morocco, Chukwueze appears to have found a new level of motivation.

In the viral clip, an energised Chukwueze is seen hugging a member of the coaching staff before turning to the camera with a bold declaration of intent.

“Let’s cook, let’s cook,” Chukwueze exclaimed with a wide grin. “Let’s keep cooking. I told you I am cooking!”

The "cooking" slang, popularised in football culture to describe a player hitting a rich vein of form, is more than just bravado. 

Before departing for the tournament in Morocco, the AC Milan loanee had become one of Marco Silva's most lethal weapons, recording two goals and four assists in just nine appearances.

While Nigeria’s quest for a fourth title ended in a bronze medal, Chukwueze was a key architect of the Super Eagles' offensive play. 

Statistically, he was one of the most efficient creators in the tournament, providing two vital assists in his three starts.

His return provides a massive boost for Fulham boss Marco Silva, who has been vocal about his eagerness and is happy to reunite the Super Eagles trio of Chukwueze, Alex Iwobi, and Calvin Bassey.

The Momentum: Chukwueze hit the ground running in December with standout performances against Tottenham and Manchester City.

With Fulham currently sitting in the midtable, Chukwueze’s inspired state suggests he is ready to transform his international hunger into domestic results.

The Next Challenge: Fulham face Brighton at Craven Cottage this Saturday, where Chukwueze is expected to make his first appearance since the tournament.

Defenders across the Premier League will be wary of the winger's renewed confidence. Having already proven he can dismantle elite defences, most notably with a brace against Manchester City earlier this season, Chukwueze seems determined to prove that his AFCON form was just a taster of what is to come.

As the London club pushes for European qualification, it seems the chef is ready to serve up a storm.