Chelsea’s Christopher Nkunku: ‘I have gone through difficult phases psychologically.’ | OneFootball

It hasn’t been smooth sailing for Christopher Nkunku (26) since joining Chelsea from RB Leipzig in the summer of 2023. In his debut campaign at Stamford Bridge, he was limited to just 14 appearances in all competitions as he missed a staggering 242 days through injury.

However, Nkunku doesn’t believe that his debut campaign at Chelsea was the most difficult time of the year. “The hardest period was when I missed the World Cup,” said the Frenchman in a press conference, transcribed by Get French Football News. Nkunku, at RB Leipzig at the time, was called up by Didier Deschamps for the FIFA World Cup in Qatar but was injured in pre-tournament training with Les Bleus and was forced to withdraw with a knee issue.

‘Injuries are behind me’ – Nkunku

Injuries marred Nkunku’s first season in the Premier League. “I have gone through difficult phases psychologically. These are also adventures that make you more strong and I learnt to understand my body, as well as patience and resilience,” said the Chelsea forward.

This season, whilst not a guaranteed starter under new manager Enzo Maresca, Nkunku is rediscovering his best form with seven goals in 11 matches. “I am rediscovering my level. In terms of rhythm, that will come with game time,” said the Paris Saint-Germain academy product.

He added, “I want to stay and to perform. It is one of my objectives. The injuries are behind me. The goal is to stay fit and in good health.”

GFFN | Luke Entwistle