'He doesn't like it' - Maresca reveals Chelsea player complaint
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Christopher Nkunku does not like playing out wide according to Chelsea boss Enzo Maresca (Credit: Imago)

'He doesn't like it' - Maresca reveals Chelsea player complaint

Seye Omidiora 15:22 - 20.09.2024

The Chelsea boss, on Friday, disclosed a key player’s displeasure with role and position.

Enzo Maresca has let slip Christopher Nkunku’s dissatisfaction with playing out wide ahead of Chelsea’s Premier League match against West Ham United

Maresca reveals Nkunku’s displeasure

The Frenchman started on the left side of the Blues’ attack in the Blues’ league-opening match against Manchester City and was played on the flanks after coming off the bench against Crystal Palace before the international break, even if he could not make the desired impact. 

Coming on for Nicolas Jackson at Bournemouth last weekend, Nkunku netted the game’s only goal as Chelsea notched a 1-0 victory at the Vitality Stadium for his first league strike of the 2024-25 season. 

Christopher Nkunku
Christopher Nkunku was Chelsea's match-winner at Bournemouth on September 14, 2024 (Credit: Imago)

Having played a central role last time out, Maresca disclosed the France international’s preference in Friday’s press conference. 

“Christo doesn't like to play wide, he likes to be in the centre of the pitch - we know that. But sometimes, to find the balance, he plays in a position that isn't the best for him,” admitted the Chelsea boss. 

“We use Christoph in the nine in the last game. He is completely different to Nicolas. Nico is a number nine and Christo isn't a real number nine. I am so happy with the squad we have, not just Christo and Nicolas.”

What comes next?

Chelsea could notch their third league victory in Saturday’s lunchtime match against West Ham at the London Stadium.