“I can’t work with him” “I don’t think our partnership can work” – £180,000-per-week Chelsea star worried about playing with Enzo Fernandez
Stamford Bridge appears to be experiencing a fresh wave of uncertainty as Christopher Nkunku, the £195,000-per-week star for Chelsea, is apparently becoming anxious about his position in Enzo Maresca’s plans.
His concerns are similar to those of Enzo Fernandez, who was recently benched from the starting lineup, which stoked rumors about his long-term Chelsea future.
World Cup champion Fernandez was acquired from Benfica for an incredible £107 million, but his position has become uncertain as Maresca increasingly prefers Romeo Lavia and Moises Caicedo in midfield. Lavia’s physical presence is a better fit for the squad’s current needs, according to Maresca’s recent explanation of his preference.
Although Maresca insists he has no issue with Fernandez, the decision has cast doubts over the Argentine’s future at the club. Barcelona and Inter Milan are rumored to be monitoring his situation closely, potentially eyeing an opportunity to lure him away from west London.
Off the pitch, Fernandez has faced personal challenges, including a recent split from his childhood sweetheart, Valentina Cervantes. Now living alone despite having two young children, he has had to balance his demanding career with personal turmoil, which Maresca acknowledged while defending his £180,000-per-week player.
“Footballers are human beings,” Maresca stated, “just because a club pays a lot doesn’t mean they can be perfect every game.”
Meanwhile, Nkunku, who has been impressive since recovering from injury with eight goals in 15 matches, finds himself largely confined to a substitute role. Despite his late-game heroics, like his match-winning goal against Bournemouth, Maresca has hesitated to start him regularly.
According to The Boot Room, Nkunku’s concern is deepening, though a January exit is unlikely. Maresca’s focus on physicality in his lineup may be affecting Nkunku’s game time, with other attackers currently on a hot streak.
Managing such a high-caliber squad is proving a delicate balancing act for Maresca, and as he juggles talent with tactical preferences, it’s clear some stars, like Nkunku, are left feeling sidelined. But with his undeniable impact when he’s on the pitch, Nkunku’s case for more playing time is hard to ignore.