Football
4 Feb 2025
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Enzo Maresca Admits Unfair Treatment of Wantaway Chelsea Star

Maresca discusses Nkunku's future / Robbie Jay Barratt - AMA/GettyImages

Christopher Nkunku Open to Permanent Chelsea Exit

Chelsea manager Enzo Maresca has admitted that he has been “unfair” to Christopher Nkunku, who has struggled for meaningful minutes this season. The French forward has found himself behind Nicolas Jackson in the pecking order and has started just three Premier League games in the current campaign.

Despite being a highly-rated addition to Chelsea’s squad, Nkunku has not been the first-choice attacking option and was even overlooked in Monday’s 2-1 win over West Ham United. Instead of introducing Nkunku as a direct replacement for Jackson, Enzo Maresca opted for teenage forward Marc Guiu, further highlighting Nkunku’s diminished role at Stamford Bridge.

Bayern Munich & Manchester United Interest Failed to Yield Transfer

During the January transfer window, speculation regarding Christopher Nkunku’s future intensified. The 26-year-old was open to a permanent transfer away from Chelsea, with both Bayern Munich and Manchester United showing interest in securing his services.

Bayern saw Nkunku as a potential replacement for Mathys Tel, who was being linked with a move to Tottenham Hotspur, while Manchester United made a deadline day approach for the Frenchman. However, Chelsea’s £70m asking price proved to be a stumbling block, as both Bayern and United were only willing to offer around £45m. Ultimately, negotiations collapsed, and Nkunku remained at Chelsea.

Enzo Maresca Admits He Has Been “Unfair” to Nkunku

After Chelsea’s victory over West Ham United, Enzo Maresca acknowledged that Nkunku’s game time has been limited and admitted that the player deserves more opportunities.

“Christo, since day one, has been very good, very professional. Probably in some moments, I have been unfair with him because he probably deserves something more. But hopefully, from now on, he can help us a little bit more.”Enzo Maresca

This public admission may offer Nkunku some reassurance, but whether it leads to increased minutes remains to be seen. Chelsea’s attacking depth and Enzo Maresca’s current tactical preferences could still limit Nkunku’s role moving forward.

Nkunku is on the fringes / Visionhaus/GettyImages
Nkunku is on the fringes / Visionhaus/GettyImages

Chelsea’s Squad Depth and Nkunku’s Struggles for Minutes

Chelsea boasts a strong attacking lineup, with multiple options in forward positions. Nicolas Jackson has been the preferred choice, while Enzo Maresca has also given opportunities to younger players like Marc Guiu. The competition for places has made it difficult for Nkunku to establish himself as a key figure in Chelsea’s attack.

Adding to the frustration, Pedro Neto, another attacking player introduced off the bench, made an instant impact against West Ham, scoring Chelsea’s equalizer before Cole Palmer secured the win. After the match, Neto emphasized the importance of squad depth and the role of substitutes in Chelsea’s performance.

“Of course, everyone wants to play, but it shows just how important having a squad is. Everyone is there to help the team, whether you start or come on.”Pedro Neto

Neto also highlighted the contributions of players like Marc Guiu, Malo Gusto, Trevoh Chalobah, and Nkunku, who played crucial roles in Chelsea’s comeback victory.

What’s Next for Christopher Nkunku at Chelsea?

With the January transfer window now closed, Nkunku must focus on fighting for a place in the starting lineup. If Maresca’s comments indicate a potential increase in minutes, the French forward might still have an opportunity to prove his worth at Chelsea.

However, the uncertainty surrounding his future remains. If his playing time does not improve, Nkunku could push for a summer exit, with Bayern Munich and Manchester United likely to renew their interest. Chelsea, on the other hand, may have to reconsider their £70m valuation if they want to facilitate a sale.

For now, all eyes will be on Enzo Maresca’s squad selection in the coming weeks to see if Nkunku’s role changes or if the transfer saga continues heading into the summer window.

Conclusion

The Christopher Nkunku transfer saga remains an ongoing discussion, despite his failed January exit. While Enzo Maresca has admitted to unfair treatment, Nkunku’s future at Chelsea is far from certain. If his playing time does not increase, a summer move to a club like Bayern Munich or Manchester United may be inevitable.

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