Chelsea manager Enzo Maresca has reiterated his desire to keep Christopher Nkunku at Stamford Bridge, amid speculation linking the French midfielder with a move to Manchester United.
Nkunku has struggled to establish himself in Chelsea’s starting lineup this season, making just one Premier League start and playing no more than 26 minutes in the league since the opening weekend.
However, Maresca has moved to quell rumours of Nkunku’s discontent, insisting that the 27-year-old is happy at the club and not for sale.
“Not at all,” Maresca said when asked if Nkunku was unhappy. “I spoke with Christo days ago – he did not say he is not happy.”
Maresca attributed Nkunku’s lack of playing time to the need for “balance” in midfield, given the wealth of attacking options at Chelsea’s disposal.
“The problem with Christo, not the problem but the same issue we have mentioned many times; if you play with Cole Palmer, Joao Felix, Christo, Jadon Sancho or Noni Madueke – who is defending?” Maresca explained.
“Their skill is not defending. The last game, we tried with Joao and Cole together. Probably the best moment for Christo with us has been in pre-season, playing in his position.”
Chelsea face Heidenheim in the Conference League later this week, a game in which Nkunku is expected to start. They then take on Aston Villa on Sunday in the Premier League.
Image Credit: Getty Images Sport