Former Chelsea defender Jason Cundy has raised concerns about Christopher Nkunku’s struggles at Stamford Bridge, suggesting that the French forward might need to reconsider his future with the club. Despite his obvious talent, Nkunku has faced challenges in finding a consistent role within Chelsea’s evolving squad under manager Enzo Maresca.
Chelsea, undergoing significant changes with new arrivals such as Kiernan Dewsbury-Hall and Renato Veiga, has found Nkunku struggling to adapt to Maresca’s fluid system. The confusion surrounding Nkunku’s best position—whether as a number ten, winger, or other roles—has hindered his ability to establish himself as a key player.
Cundy questioned the tactical clarity surrounding Nkunku’s role, pointing out that the player has yet to find his ideal position, and his versatility has worked against him. “He’s not a number nine, and he doesn’t seem to fit into the team’s current attacking structure,” Cundy explained. With striker Nicolas Jackson now dominating the forward line, Nkunku’s potential role has become more limited.
Cundy also expressed concerns about Maresca’s failure to integrate Nkunku into a defined tactical system, suggesting that the player’s inclusion often feels like an obligation rather than a strategic choice. “It’s clear Maresca doesn’t have a specific place for him,” he said.
As Chelsea looks to strengthen its squad in the January transfer window, Cundy proposed that Nkunku might need to explore options outside of Stamford Bridge. He emphasized that Nkunku’s lack of a defined role could stifle his development, and a move away could be in the player’s best interest.
The larger issue at Chelsea, according to Cundy, is the club’s ongoing struggle with squad management and tactical clarity. As the club reshapes under Maresca, Nkunku’s situation reflects the broader challenges that players face in adapting to a constantly changing environment.
Whether Nkunku stays at Chelsea or moves on, the next few months will be pivotal in determining his career trajectory. His talent remains unquestionable, but without a clear tactical fit, it may be difficult for him to reach his full potential at Chelsea. With the January transfer window approaching, Nkunku’s future is likely to be a key talking point, and his next decision could shape the future of his career.
