Chelsea Manager Open to Nicolas Jackson and Christopher Nkunku Exits

Chelsea head coach Enzo Maresca says that Nicolas Jackson and Christopher Nkunku could leave the club soon. Both players are not in the squad for the next Premier League game.

WHAT HAPPENED?

Enzo Maresca confirmed in a press conference that neither Nicolas Jackson nor Christopher Nkunku will be in Chelsea‘s squad for their Friday night match against West Ham. The coach stated, “We will see if they are going to be here with us. If not, it means they found a solution. I think it’s better if they find a solution, because they are going to be more happy.”

The comments leave the futures of both attackers unclear as the September transfer deadline approaches. Chelsea recently strengthened their attack by signing João Pedro and Liam Delap, which has pushed Jackson and Nkunku down the pecking order. Both players now seem likely to move on before the window closes, as reports indicate that Chelsea want to sell both players.

TRANSFER CONTEXT AND IMPLICATIONS

The discussion about exits comes after a challenging start for Chelsea. The team drew 0-0 with Crystal Palace in their Premier League opener, as confirmed by a recent update, and sits mid-table early in the season after that match. Jackson joined Chelsea last summer and finished last season with seven Premier League goals in 32 games. Nkunku, who arrived from RB Leipzig in 2023, struggled with injuries and managed to play only 22 league games, scoring four goals according to multiple sources.

With increased competition from new arrivals, both players’ roles have become more uncertain. Meanwhile, Bayern Munich have shown strong interest in Nkunku, and ongoing negotiations are still in progress, but have not yet led to a final agreement. Chelsea’s focus remains on outgoings, especially after losing defender Levi Colwill to a serious knee injury, further underlining the importance of managing their squad efficiently.

LOOKING AHEAD: FIXTURES AND STANDINGS

Chelsea faces West Ham United next in the Premier League. West Ham lost their season opener 3-0 to newly promoted Sunderland, while Chelsea sit in 11th place after their opening draw. The gap between the clubs is just one point at this early stage.

Chelsea’s recent struggles for goals have made Maresca’s attacking choices critical. If Jackson and Nkunku leave before the transfer deadline, Chelsea will rely heavily on João Pedro and Delap. West Ham will look to capitalize on Chelsea’s uncertainty. The result of this next fixture could impact both club morale and the urgency for Chelsea to resolve remaining transfer business before September 1.