Christopher Nkunku, Chelsea’s £52 million summer addition, has been ruled out for a “extended period” following knee surgery. The French forward, who joined Chelsea from RB Leipzig, was injured in the club’s final pre-season game against Borussia Dortmund. The club has acknowledged that he would be out for an extended period of the new season.
“Nkunku has sustained a knee injury which will rule the forward out for an extended period,” Chelsea said in a statement.
“The 25-year-old has undergone an operation and will now begin a rehabilitation programme with the club’s medical department.”
West Ham aim double swoop for Man United stars Harry Maguire & Scott…
The French international was substituted in the 22nd minute of Chelsea’s final preseason encounter in Chicago against Borussia Dortmund. It was in response to a challenge from Mat Hummels.
After sustaining a meniscus injury in his left knee, initial reports suggested he would be out for weeks rather than months. However, he may now be forced to sit out for much longer. Nkunku will require knee surgery, delaying his competitive Chelsea debut until later in the season.
Chelsea’s Premier League season opener against Liverpool on August 13 will undoubtedly be missed by the 25-year-old. Christopher Nkunku has had a promising start to his stay with the west London club, but his absence worries boss Mauricio Pochettino. An extended absence for Nkunku increases the burden on Todd Boehly’s club to improve in that area.
Spurs reject Bayer Munich’s third & final offer for Harry Kane
They have been connected with Crystal Palace winger Michael Olise, who can also play in attacking midfield. Furthermore, Neymar has been mentioned as a possible target after apparently telling Paris Saint-Germain that he wishes to leave the club.
Chelsea scored 38 goals in 38 matches last season, so they need all the attacking alternatives they can get this time around if they are to improve. The requirement must make a meaningful push to return to the top four.
On Sunday, Chelsea will kick off their 2023-24 league season at home against Jurgen Klopp’s Liverpool. They will be hoping that Nkunku will be able to return to the first team as soon as possible.
Follow InsideSport on GOOGLE NEWS
Editor's Pick
Top Stories
