Maresca wants to keep Nkunku despite links to Manchester United

Chelsea manager Enzo Maresca has said Christopher Nkunku is not for sale despite rumors he is wanted elsewhere after a lack of playing time in the Premier League.

Nkunku has made 18 appearances for Chelsea in all competitions this season, although his only league start came on the opening weekend and has since played 26 minutes in the league.

His goalscoring record is good so far, with six in the Europa Conference League and two in the EFL Cup, but Maresca explained his absence from the competition is down to 'balance'.

When asked if the 27-year-old was unhappy with his small role in the side, Maresca suggested that is not the case.

4 – All four of Christopher Nkunku's Premier League goals for Chelsea have come as a substitute. Super. pic.twitter.com/qDXnV9CwI2

— OptaJoe (@OptaJoe) September 14, 2024

“Not at all. I spoke to Christo days ago, he didn't say he's not happy,” he said.

“Absolute [he is not for sale]Yes. The problem with Christo, not the problem, but the same problem that we have mentioned many times.

“When you play with Cole [Palmer]Yoao [Felix]Christo, Jadon [Sancho] or Noni [Madueke]who defends? Their skill is not defense. The last game we tried Joao and Cole together.

“The best moment for Christo with us was probably in pre-season, when he played in his position. Since we started, he has played as a nine for us. Against City he played as a winger, knowing that is not his best position.”

“His best position is 10, but Cole plays there. We need balance.”

Chelsea play away to Heidenheim in the Europa Conference League on Thursday, where Nkunku is expected to start, before playing Aston Villa in the Premier League on Sunday.