Former Liverpool star Steve Nicol has labelled Christopher Nkunku as “absolutely and utterly invisible” after another inconsistent season for Chelsea. Despite scoring 14 goals in all competitions, Nkunku has only netted three times in the Premier League, raising questions about his impact.
Chelsea signed Nkunku from RB Leipzig for £52 million in 2023, but injuries severely hampered his first season. While his goal tally has improved this campaign, his performances—especially in Chelsea’s recent 1-0 defeat to Arsenal—have drawn criticism. Nicol claims Nkunku has failed to make an impression, while Paul Merson argues that he is being played out of position, stating that he should operate behind a striker rather than out wide.
Chelsea boss Enzo Maresca has defended the French forward, insisting that he remains a key part of the squad despite reported interest from Bayern Munich and Manchester United. However, Nkunku was left out of the France squad for the March international break, meaning he has extra time to work on his form.
With Chelsea battling for a Champions League place and preparing for a Europa Conference League quarter-final against Legia Warsaw, Nkunku will be hoping to prove his worth in the crucial months ahead.
Nkunku now has an opportunity to silence his critics, but he needs to rediscover his best form quickly if he is to justify Chelsea’s investment in him.
