Fulham have handed 18-year-old winger Macaulay Zepa his first professional contract, keeping the promising youngster at Craven Cottage through his prime years. The Cottagers announced the deal on Monday, marking a key step in the Cameroon youth international’s development.

What happened at Fulham?

The London club confirmed Zepa’s new deal on 14 July 2026, just over two years after he joined the academy from an unnamed source. The winger, who turns 19 in August, impressed immediately in youth football, scoring 14 times in 24 U18 Premier League games during his first season. His form earned him regular minutes with Fulham’s Under-21 side last term, where he racked up 28 appearances across multiple positions.

And his progress hasn’t gone unnoticed. In March 2026, Zepa received his first call-up to the Cameroon Under-23 squad for a training camp in Spain, underlining his rising stock. Speaking to fulhamfc.com, he said: “It feels really good to be a professional footballer at this Club. I’m just ready to work hard now. I want to keep kicking on with the 21s this season, and hopefully get my chance with the First Team.”

Why it matters for Fulham

With Fulham sitting 11th in the Premier League on 52 points from 38 games and a -4 goal difference, every homegrown talent adds depth to Marco Silva’s squad. The Cottagers’ recent form reads WDLLW, but a 2-game winning run shows momentum heading into pre-season. Zepa’s versatility—he’s played across the front three—gives Silva options if injuries or suspensions bite.

His Cameroon U23 call-up also hints at international pedigree, a useful selling point for a club chasing European football. Fulham have shipped 51 goals this season, so adding creative outlets like Zepa could ease pressure on attack-minded midfielders.

What comes next for Zepa?

The teenager will now train full-time with the first team squad, though Silva is unlikely to rush him. Last season’s U21 campaign saw Zepa feature in multiple roles, a sign he’s adaptable. If he replicates his U18 impact in pre-season friendlies, Silva may fast-track his Premier League debut.

Fulham’s next step is clear: build on a 2-0 win over Newcastle on 24 May 2026 and push for a top-half finish. Zepa’s contract keeps him at Craven Cottage until at least 2028, giving him time to grow under Silva’s watchful eye. The club’s recent form—two wins and two draws in the last five—suggests they’re trending the right way, and Zepa’s progression could be part of that upward curve.

Fulham sit 33 points behind Arsenal in the title race with 47 goals scored this season.