EPL: Maresca makes demand of Nkunku to earn more playing ‘minutes’

GistReel

Chelsea manager, Enzo Maresca, has urged Christopher Nkunku to “work hard” to secure more playing time in the Premier League.

Nkunku, who was impressive during pre-season, has faced challenges adapting to a striker role, a position Maresca acknowledged isn’t his natural fit.

“I feel for Christo because he was our best player during pre-season. However, we’ve had to adjust his role, moving him to striker, even though he’s not naturally a No.9.

“Christo is similar to Joao; if they keep working hard, they’ll earn more minutes in the Premier League,” Maresca said.

At a press conference ahead of Chelsea’s Conference League match against FC Noah, Maresca also discussed his tactical approach, revealing that he avoids starting Nkunku, Joao Felix, and Cole Palmer together.

“We need balance. We cannot play with Joao, Cole, and Nkunku,” he explained, pointing at his preference for a structured lineup in the Premier League.