Christopher Nkunku cites injuries and managerial choices for Chelsea struggles as he joins AC Milan

Christopher Nkunku pinpointed injury problems and subsequent selection decisions as the main reasons he failed to establish himself at Chelsea, insisting he is ready to rebuild his career after completing a move to AC Milan.

The 27-year-old French forward was presented by the Rossoneri on Friday following a summer transfer worth £36 million. Nkunku said he arrived in London with high hopes after sealing a £52 million move from RB Leipzig in 2023 but was sidelined almost immediately and struggled to regain consistency.

"I got injured straight away and was out for five months, and upon my return I had a relapse," Nkunku said at Casa Milan. "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."

Nkunku acknowledged that he never managed to become a consistent performer at Stamford Bridge. He said the decision to join AC Milan was straightforward after contact from the Italian club. "When AC Milan called me, I didn't have to think about it too much; I immediately knew it was the perfect option for me," he added.

Chelsea signed Nkunku from RB Leipzig amid significant expectations, but a lengthy injury layoff early in his first season limited his availability and disrupted his integration into the squad. Upon his return, he suffered a relapse that further impeded his playing time. In his second campaign at Stamford Bridge, Nkunku said he sought to regain form but did not secure the role he wanted under the club's management.

At his Milan unveiling, Nkunku stressed his desire to contribute positively and regain confidence on the pitch. He framed the transfer as a fresh start and expressed belief that a change of environment would help him return to his best. The Rossoneri will seek to integrate him into their forward options as they compete in Serie A and European competitions.

The move marks the latest high-profile transfer involving a Premier League club and a major European side. Nkunku's comments provide a player perspective on why a high-fee signing did not meet expectations at Stamford Bridge, citing injury interruptions and coaching choices rather than form or attitude.

AC Milan will now assess how quickly Nkunku can adapt to his new surroundings and contribute on the field. The club and player have set out publicly the mutual goal of a revitalised spell in Italy after a difficult two years in England.