Christopher Nkunku cites injuries and coach choices for Chelsea struggles, vows to prove himself after move to AC Milan
Former £52m signing says a long-term injury and a relapse stalled his Stamford Bridge spell as he seeks a fresh start following a £36m transfer to the Rossoneri
Christopher Nkunku said injuries and managerial selection decisions were central to the problems that prevented him from establishing himself at Chelsea, as the 27-year-old was formally presented by AC Milan and vowed to prove himself in Serie A.
Nkunku completed a summer move to Milan for about £36 million after joining Chelsea from RB Leipzig in 2023 for a reported £52 million. Speaking at Casa Milan on Friday, the French forward said a lengthy layoff and a setback on his return left him unable to find consistent form in London.
"I got injured straight away and was out for five months, and upon my return I had a relapse," Nkunku said. "In my second year, I worked hard and did everything I could to be ready, and the coach made his choices. I'm the same player I've always been, I want to play with a smile, and I know it will be different here in Milan." He added that when AC Milan approached him, he did not hesitate because he believed the move was the right option.
The transfer marks a marked change of scenery for Nkunku, who arrived at Stamford Bridge amid high expectations after prolific seasons with RB Leipzig. He struggled to translate his earlier form into a consistent run of performances for Chelsea, with injury interruptions and limited impact contributing to his departure.
At Milan, Nkunku will attempt to rebuild his career and recapture the form that made him one of Europe's most sought-after forwards. The Rossoneri presented him to the media on Friday, where he reiterated his determination to restart his career in Italy and contribute to a club that appealed to him immediately.
Chelsea officials and supporters had hoped the forward would become a regular contributor after the sizeable transfer fee in 2023, but Nkunku's time at Stamford Bridge was defined by spells on the sidelines and an inability to secure an uninterrupted run in the team. He said he remained the same player in temperament and ambition and looked forward to playing with more joy at his new club.
Milan's summer recruitment has focused on adding attacking options to bolster the squad, and Nkunku's arrival provides the club with a forward who can play across the front line. The player framed the move as an opportunity to restart rather than a resignation, expressing confidence that a change of environment would allow him to rediscover his best level.
Nkunku's career will be watched closely in the coming weeks as he integrates into Milan's training and tactical set-up. His comments underline the role injuries played in his Chelsea tenure and place the emphasis on recovery, playing time and coaching decisions as he seeks to prove his value in Serie A.