Christopher Nkunku’s time at Chelsea has been a tale of intrigue and transition, with the French international reduced to a fringe role this season.
Despite arriving with high expectations following a stellar stint at RB Leipzig, the attacking midfielder finds himself on the periphery under Enzo Maresca’s regime. Injuries and a shifting tactical focus have undoubtedly played a part, but former Chelsea star Emmanuel Petit suggests there’s a bigger picture at play.
Nkunku, 27, joined the Blues amidst significant fanfare but has struggled to make a lasting impact in the Premier League. While his 10 goals in 17 appearances this season might suggest otherwise, the majority of those contributions have come in domestic and European cup fixtures, rather than in the league. Maresca’s preference for Nicolas Jackson as a central forward and the rise of Cole Palmer as a creative force have limited Nkunku’s opportunities to shine in his preferred No. 10 role.
Petit believes this isn’t merely a case of misfortune or form. Speaking to Casino Hawks, he revealed that Chelsea’s long-term strategy may be shaping Nkunku’s current situation. According to Petit, Maresca is already planning for the arrival of Brazilian prodigy Estevao Willian, a player heralded as one of the brightest talents in world football.
“Nkunku isn’t being prioritised at Chelsea because of who is coming in to play in that position,” Petit explained. “Estevao Willian is a phenomenal talent who has broken records in Brazil and is set to join Chelsea’s first team next season. The plan is clear—he’s earmarked for the No. 10 role.”
Estevao, at just 17 years old, is being touted as the future of Chelsea’s creative department. Petit added, “His agent has clarified that there’s a well-defined plan with the Chelsea board. Nkunku is a fantastic player and has done well, but injuries have held him back. While Chelsea will be happy to keep him, he’s not the priority anymore.”
Advertisement
Latest Press Conference
We’re on Social Media
Nkunku’s limited involvement has inevitably led to speculation about his future. Reports suggest potential interest from Manchester United and PSG in January, as the Frenchman looks to rediscover consistent minutes. However, Chelsea fans may wonder if this is simply a bump in the road or the beginning of the end for a player who promised so much upon his arrival.
Meanwhile, Estevao Willian’s impending arrival is generating significant excitement among supporters and pundits alike. With a reputation for dazzling skill and creativity, the teenager has already drawn comparisons to some of Brazil’s finest exports. Petit sees Estevao as a game-changer: “He has everything you’d want in an attacking player—skill, vision, and composure. He’s the type of player fans pay to watch. Chelsea must be patient, but he has the potential to be one of their greatest.”
The Estevao signing also adds to Chelsea’s storied history of Brazilian stars. From Thiago Silva to Willian, the Blues have often looked to South America for flair and leadership. Estevao could well be the next in line, but Petit warns against complacency. “Football can change quickly,” he cautioned. “Players with great starts sometimes fizzle out. Chelsea need to manage him carefully to ensure he fulfills his potential.”
As Chelsea look ahead, they’re not only preparing for Estevao’s arrival but also reportedly plotting moves to strengthen other areas of the squad. The club is eyeing Liverpool goalkeeper Caoimhin Kelleher, with reports suggesting the Reds could be forced to sell if their valuation is met. Kelleher, currently playing second fiddle to Alisson Becker, could seek a move to secure regular first-team football, and Stamford Bridge could be an enticing destination.
Chelsea are also monitoring Bournemouth’s Illia Zabarnyi. The 22-year-old center-back has impressed in his debut Premier League season, playing a key role in Bournemouth’s resurgence under Andoni Iraola. With Zabarnyi attracting interest from Manchester City and Tottenham as well, Chelsea may face stiff competition for his signature.
Nkunku’s situation, coupled with these transfer developments, highlights the rapid evolution of Chelsea’s squad under Maresca. Balancing immediate results with long-term planning is no easy task, but the Blues seem intent on building a team capable of competing on all fronts for years to come. Whether Nkunku will play a significant role in that vision remains to be seen, but for now, Chelsea fans will have plenty to discuss as they watch this narrative unfold.
With Estevao Willian waiting in the wings and potential new signings on the horizon, Chelsea’s future looks as intriguing as ever. But as they navigate this transition, the treatment of established stars like Nkunku will be closely scrutinized, ensuring that the stakes at Stamford Bridge remain as high as ever.
