Playing time in the Premier League has raised a lot of concerns about Chelsea’s Christopher Nkunku. Even though Nkunku has had enough time in the Carabao Cup and in the UEFA Conference League, there are reports that the player is unhappy with not playing in the Premier League and is hence linked with Manchester United.
However, Enzo Maresca has cleared up those rumors, stating that Nkunku is not for sale in the January window. He made this statement when he was speaking ahead of the Conference League match at Heidenheim.
He said: “I spoke to Christo days ago, and he did not say he was unhappy. For sure, he would like to play minutes, but like many players, we have so many games, especially in December. The problem with Christo — not the problem, but it’s the same issue and the same thing we mention many times about Joao (Felix). If you play with Cole (Palmer), you play with Joao, or Christo, or Noni (Madueke), or Jadon (Sancho) — who is defending? Their skills and strength are not defending; it’s attacking.
“We love them, but also we need the balance. Last game, we tried with Cole and Joao together. Soon, we can try with Christo and Cole, Christo and Joao, for sure.
“The reason why is because we have so many games. I completely want Christo to stay with us; I don’t have any idea of letting him leave in January.” Source: Sky Sports
He also spoke on Nkunku’s happiness at the club and stated that, just like any other player, he would like to play more and in the Premier League. However, the conclusion is that he is not expecting Nkunku to exit the club in January.
