“I Don’t think it can work” – £195k-per-week Chelsea star worried about his future with Enzo Fernandez
Thank you for reading this post, don't forget to subscribe!A new wave of uncertainty seems to be sweeping through Stamford Bridge, as Chelsea’s £195,000-per-week star Christopher Nkunku is reportedly growing concerned about his place in Enzo Maresca’s plans. His worries mirror those of Enzo Fernandez, who recently found himself dropped from the starting lineup, fueling speculation around his long-term future at Chelsea.
Fernandez, a World Cup winner, was signed for a staggering £107 million from Benfica, yet his role has come into question as Maresca increasingly favors Romeo Lavia in midfield alongside Moises Caicedo. Maresca recently explained his preference, citing Lavia’s physical presence as a better fit for the squad’s current demands. 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.
