The star joined last summer but has had a stop-start to his career with the Blues
He has been a back-up attacking player this season due to the form of another star
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By KIERAN GILL
Published: 16:33 EST, 27 November 2024 | Updated: 16:33 EST, 27 November 2024
Enzo Maresca has declared Christopher Nkunku not for sale, saying the £52million Frenchman will categorically not leave in January despite speculation suggesting he is unhappy at Stamford Bridge.
Manchester United and Borussia Dortmund have been linked with Nkunku, who has not started a Premier League game since his club’s opening-day defeat by Manchester City.
The 27-year-old has been reserved for the cup competitions, including Thursday night's Conference League trip to face Heidenheim in Germany. But asked during his pre-match press conference at the Voith Arena, Maresca said: ‘I spoke to Christo days ago and he did not say he was unhappy.
‘For sure, he would like to play minutes, but like many players. We have so many games, especially in December. Against Leicester, Joao (Felix) played, Enzo (Fernandez) played and Benoit (Badiashile) played. Since we started, for me, there are not two squads – the squad is only one. They can play Conference League or the Premier League.’
Asked if Nkunku is not for sale, Maresca said: ‘Absolutely, yes. I completely want Christo to stay with us. I don't have any idea to let him leave in January.
‘Christo's best position is between the lines as a No 10 but Cole is playing there. They are all fantastic players and are all going to play games, no doubt, but not every game.’
Enzo Maresca has insisted that a £52million Chelsea star will not leave the club in January
The star has been linked with a move away but Maresca (pictured) said he won't leave in January
There have been reports that Christopher Nkunku is unhappy at being in Chelsea's cup team
Meanwhile, Josh Acheampong has returned to Chelsea first-team training after previously being exiled because of a contract dispute, though the academy right back is not with the squad in Germany.
Captain Reece James has also had his scan on his hamstring, but the club are still awaiting the diagnosis on when he could return. ‘We are waiting for him,’ Maresca said of James when asked. ‘No rush.'
Pedro Neto and Malo Gusto are also not in Germany with Chelsea but are expected to be fit to face Aston Villa in the Premier League this Sunday.