Christopher Nkunku may consider leaving Chelsea if he fails to secure a regular starting spot under head coach Enzo Maresca, according to a new report.
Nkunku has scored 10 goals across all competitions this season, largely taking advantage of opportunities in the Carabao Cup and Conference League. However, the 26-year-old has struggled for Premier League minutes, unable to displace Nicolas Jackson, who has formed a strong partnership with the rising Cole Palmer.
With just 151 minutes of Premier League action so far, Nkunku’s only start came on the opening day against Manchester City, where he lasted only 57 minutes before being substituted. Despite his limited minutes, Nkunku, signed for £52m from RB Leipzig in July 2023, remains highly motivated, but Sky Sports Germany suggests that frustration could set in by next summer if his role doesn’t improve.
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Nkunku’s impressive record at RB Leipzig, where he scored 47 Bundesliga goals—36 of them in his final two seasons—demonstrates his ambition and desire to play regularly. In addition, he scored 11 goals in European competitions during Leipzig’s runs in the Champions League and Europa League.
At Chelsea, competition for places is fierce. In addition to Jackson and Palmer, Nkunku is vying for positions with the likes of Noni Madueke, Pedro Neto, Jadon Sancho, and Mykhailo Mudryk. Although Nkunku has shown his ability to play on the wing, the central forward role appears to be his best route into the starting XI.
Despite Nkunku’s situation, Chelsea are performing well under Maresca, sitting comfortably in the Premier League’s top four after a series of positive results.