Christopher Nkunku’s future at Chelsea looks increasingly uncertain after being notably left out of the matchday squad for Sunday’s victory over Fulham.
The French forward, who was signed for £52m, has struggled to live up to expectations since his move from RB Leipzig, where he recorded 87 combined goals and assists over the two seasons before joining Chelsea. An injury-plagued campaign last year saw him miss much of the season, and under Enzo Maresca, Nkunku has largely been relegated to a fringe role, starting just nine Premier League games. Of his 14 goals this season, half have come in the less competitive Conference League.
Nkunku was linked with a January move, with Bayern Munich and Manchester United reportedly interested, but Sunday marked the first time this season—aside from December’s lengthy trip to Kazakhstan when most of the first team was left behind—that he was completely excluded from the squad.
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When asked about the decision, Maresca gave a blunt response, ruling out fitness as an issue.
“Just a technical decision,” the Chelsea manager stated when pressed by reporters.
Maresca opted to start Jadon Sancho, who has yet to fully live up to his potential, and young winger Tyrique George, who made an impact by scoring the equaliser after coming on with just over 10 minutes left. Chelsea eventually claimed a 2-1 victory through a stoppage-time goal from Pedro Neto, keeping their Champions League hopes alive.
Nkunku still has four years remaining on his contract, but his market value has dropped significantly from its €80m peak in 2022 to just €45m (£39m) now, suggesting Chelsea could face a potential loss if they decide to sell.
