Be patient with Christopher Nkunku - Mauricio Pochettino's appeal to fans

Be patient with Christopher Nkunku - Mauricio Pochettino's appeal to fans

Hassan Abdulsalam 11:42 - 20.12.2023

Nkunku, a £52 million summer signing from RB Leipzig, has been sidelined due to a knee injury sustained during a pre-season tour in the United States.

In a significant development for Chelsea FC, manager Mauricio Pochettino has called for patience from fans as new signing Christopher Nkunku prepares for his debut amid high expectations.

According to The Independent, Mauricio Pochettino, the manager of Chelsea, has appealed to fans for patience regarding the integration of Christopher Nkunku into the team. 

Nkunku, a £52 million summer signing from RB Leipzig, has been sidelined due to a knee injury sustained during a pre-season tour in the United States. 

This injury delayed his debut for Chelsea, heightening expectations among fans and observers.

Pochettino has emphasized the need for caution and realistic expectations as Nkunku returns to fitness and competitive play.

The manager expressed concern about putting too much pressure on Nkunku, noting the player's recent recovery from a lengthy injury and the challenges of adapting to the Premier League.

Chelsea manager Mauricio Pochettino || Credit: imago

Nkunku's debut for Chelsea

Nkunku's potential debut was a topic of much speculation, with Pochettino considering him for playtime in the EFL Cup quarter-final against Newcastle. However, despite being named in the squad for a Premier League match against Sheffield United, Nkunku was not utilized. Pochettino cited a minor doubt about his readiness to play, as per Yahoo Sports.

Nkunku
Nkunku in action during preseason Credit: Getty Image Nkunku

Chelsea's performance this season has been inconsistent, particularly in goal-scoring. 

The team scored more goals than the same stage last season but has experienced periods of drought, notably in September, followed by bursts of high scoring. Pochettino's comments suggest a cautious approach to Nkunku's integration into the team, focusing on gradual progress rather than immediate impact.

The situation reflects Chelsea's broader challenges this season, including climbing up the league table and improving their performance to secure European competition placement and domestic cup successes.

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