Why Divine Mukasa could be weeks from career-defining decision away from West Ham

Divine Mukasa has hit the ground running upon his return to West Ham United on loan from Manchester City.

Three years on from departing the London Stadium, Mukasa is back as part of the Hammers' drive for an instant Premier League return.

The 19-year-old has started six Championship matches and come on as a substitute in the other,

Mukasa's only two goals so far came in the same game against Wolves, but Nuno Espirito Santo continues to start the teenage attacker regularly.

On Monday it was announced Mukasa had been called up to the England Under-21 squad, having initially been included in the Under-20s.

But it may well be that Mukasa soon has a big decision on which country his represents going forward.

Divine Mukasa could get AFCON chance next year

Mukasa is certainly a star of the future, which West Ham already knew prior to his move to Man City.

Events at the Etihad Stadium over the past week could actually benefit Mukasa, should City drop down a league or two.

As things stand, Mukasa will return to City at the end of the campaign.

At international level, his future is less set in stone.

That is amid an update shared by African journalist Dean Ammi via X on Monday night.

Ammi, who has written for BBC and Sky among others, claims Uganda are targeting Mukasa to switch allegiance from England.

Uganda also want Burnley's Bashir Humphreys as part of their squad for the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations.

It is said to be part of an "ambitious" drive as Uganda are one of the joint-hosts of AFCON, along with Kenya and Tanzania.

Will Mukasa miss any of West Ham's season?

Should Uganda make a formal approach for Mukasa, the youngster will have a huge decision to make.

Due to the fact he has not appeared at senior level for England, and likely will not for a while, he can still switch nation.

He qualifies for Uganda through his father, while he is also eligible for Lithuania through his mother.

If Mukasa does decide he wants to play for Uganda at AFCON next year, the good news for West Ham is that he will not miss any club action.

That is because the tournament, often held in the winter months, is scheduled for June and July next year.

For now, Mukasa will just keep on performing for West Ham and await any calls that arrive.