Christopher Nkunku has faced challenges in securing a consistent spot in Chelsea’s starting lineup this season. If his situation does not improve, the 26-year-old forward is reportedly open to leaving the club in 2025.
Nkunku joined Chelsea during the summer of 2023 in a high-profile £52 million transfer from RB Leipzig. The move came with great expectations following his outstanding performances in the Bundesliga, where he built a reputation as one of Europe’s most prolific forwards. However, injuries disrupted his debut season at Stamford Bridge, limiting his contributions and delaying his full integration into the squad.
Heading into the 2024/25 campaign, Nkunku was determined to make a significant impact and live up to the expectations surrounding his arrival. Despite a promising start—scoring seven goals in just 11 appearances—his progress has been hampered by Chelsea manager Enzo Maresca’s tactical preference for Nicolas Jackson as the team’s primary striker. This decision has resulted in limited opportunities for Nkunku, who has started only one of the team’s opening seven Premier League matches this season.
According to Football Insider, the French forward is growing increasingly dissatisfied with his reduced role at Chelsea. Reports suggest that if the current situation persists, Nkunku could push for a move away from the London club next summer.
His concerns have caught the attention of several top clubs, including Paris Saint-Germain (PSG). The Ligue 1 giants, where Nkunku began his professional career, are reportedly interested in bringing the player back to Paris. For Nkunku, a return to his former club could be an appealing prospect, especially given his ties to the French capital and the national team setup.
Chelsea, however, are unlikely to let Nkunku leave easily, particularly given the investment they made in securing his services. The club may look to provide him with more opportunities in the coming months to avoid the risk of losing a key player.
Still, Nicolas Jackson’s strong start to the season, with four goals and three assists in Chelsea’s first seven league matches, has further complicated Nkunku’s chances of breaking into the starting XI regularly.
As the season progresses, Nkunku’s future at Chelsea will hinge on his ability to make a greater impact and Maresca’s willingness to adapt his lineup. With PSG and other clubs monitoring the situation closely, the next few months will be crucial for both Nkunku and Chelsea in determining the trajectory of his career.
