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Christopher Nkunku Staying Put at Chelsea: Maresca Quashes Transfer Rumours

Enzo Maresca has firmly dismissed speculation that Christopher Nkunku is unhappy or available for transfer, affirming Chelsea’s commitment to the £52 million summer 2023 signing. Despite limited Premier League appearances this season, the France international remains a key part of Maresca’s long-term plans.

Nkunku’s Chelsea Journey: Challenges and Opportunities

Christopher Nkunku arrived at Chelsea from RB Leipzig as a marquee signing, but injuries hampered his debut season. This term, the 25-year-old forward has found opportunities scarce, with only one Premier League start across 11 appearances. Nicolas Jackson has emerged as Maresca’s preferred striker, while Cole Palmer has cemented his role in an attacking midfield position—a role Maresca views as Nkunku’s most effective.

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However, concerns about Nkunku’s happiness at Stamford Bridge surfaced during the recent international break. Addressing these claims ahead of Chelsea’s Europa Conference League clash with Heidenheim, Maresca was unequivocal in his response:

“No, not at all. I spoke to Christo days ago and he did not say he was unhappy,” Maresca stated. “For sure, he would like to play minutes but like many players. We have so many games, especially in December.”

When asked directly if Nkunku was not for sale, Maresca added emphatically, “Absolutely yes.”

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Europa Conference League: Nkunku’s Stage for Redemption

Nkunku has been a standout performer in Chelsea’s Europa Conference League campaign, starting all three matches and netting four goals. This competition has offered valuable minutes to players outside the core Premier League squad, including Nkunku.

Despite the rotational nature of his line-ups in Europe, Maresca dismissed the notion of having two separate squads. Instead, he emphasised the importance of squad balance, particularly when managing attacking talents.

“The problem with Christo, not the problem but it’s the same thing we mention many times about João [Félix],” Maresca explained. “If you play with Cole, you play with João, or Christo, or Noni [Madueke], or Jadon [Sancho] — who is defending? Their skills and strength is not defending; it’s to attack.”

Balancing Creativity and Defensive Solidity

Maresca’s tactical philosophy centres on finding equilibrium between creative attacking players and defensive discipline. He revealed plans to experiment with different combinations involving Nkunku, Palmer, and João Félix in the coming fixtures, highlighting December’s packed schedule as an opportunity for squad rotation.

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“We love them but also we need the balance. Last game [against Leicester], we tried with Cole and João together. Soon, we can try with Christo and Cole, Christo and João, for sure. We have so many games,” Maresca said.

The Italian tactician left no room for doubt regarding Nkunku’s future at Chelsea, saying, “I completely want Christo to stay with us; I don’t have any idea to let him leave in January.”

Nkunku’s Chelsea Future: Key to Maresca’s Vision

As Chelsea navigate a demanding schedule, Nkunku’s versatility and attacking prowess could become increasingly important. While Premier League minutes have been limited, his Europa Conference League performances underline his value to the team.

With Maresca keen to integrate Nkunku more prominently in the coming months, the Frenchman’s story at Stamford Bridge appears far from over.