Christopher Nkunku set for Chelsea debut after Injury layoff
Six months after his £52 million ($66 million) transfer to Chelsea, Christopher Nkunku is poised to make his competitive debut for the club.
The French international forward, who joined from RB Leipzig, had been sidelined due to a serious knee injury sustained in pre-season, requiring surgery.
Chelsea manager Mauricio Pochettino confirmed that Nkunku could be involved in the upcoming Premier League clash against Sheffield United.
Pochettino expressed delight over the positive news, emphasizing the significance of having Nkunku back in the squad after a prolonged absence.
He urged caution, encouraging a gradual integration for the player to adapt to the Premier League.
When asked in his pre-match press conference if Nkunku is ready for the Premier League clash with Sheffield United, Blues boss Mauricio Pochettino said: “Yes, can be involved.
” That is very good news.
” To be involved tomorrow and be in the squad and to feel the competition after the pre-season is good news for us.
” We need to be calm and quiet so not to put all the pressure on him. Now he’s going to evolve, know the Premier League.
” It’s a big motivation for us, for the team-mates, and the fans to see a player that should be important for us and to be in the squad for the first time.”
Nkunku’s arrival at Stamford Bridge had generated excitement among Chelsea fans, given his impressive goal-scoring record in the Bundesliga.
However, the injury setback delayed his competitive debut.
While Nkunku is making a return, Chelsea is grappling with ongoing injury concerns in the 2023-24 season.
Reece James, Robert Sanchez, and Marc Cucurella have succumbed to hamstring, knee, and ankle injuries, respectively.
Pochettino acknowledged the challenges posed by these injuries, particularly the absence of first-choice goalkeeper Sanchez, and expressed the team’s determination to stay resilient amid the adversity.
With Sanchez sidelined, Dorde Petrovic is expected to provide goalkeeping cover for Chelsea.
Pochettino highlighted the need for strength and resilience in the face of injuries, emphasizing that the competition continues despite setbacks.
Chelsea aims to bounce back from consecutive defeats and improve their recent run of results, which has seen them secure just three wins in their last nine games across all competitions.
