“The Problem is” – Paul Merson shares theory on why “intelligent” Chelsea ace has struggled this season | OneFootball

Sky Sports pundit Paul Merson has made a claim as to why Christopher Nkunku has struggled so much at Chelsea this season.

Nkunku started in the 1-0 defeat to Arsenal on the wing and once again offered very little in the way of attacking threat.

The France international has played in multiple different positions across the frontline under Enzo Maresca, and he’s arguably not been effective in any of them.

Merson makes Nkunku claim

Nkunku arrived to much excitement in the summer of 2023 from RB Leipzig, but picked up an injury in his first pre-season which ruled him out for four months.

He showed glimpses of quality on his return, and the expectation was he’d have a key role under Maresca after impressing in pre-season again and starting the first game of the campaign.

However, things haven’t gone to plan and Nkunku has struggled to get in the team, starting just eight Premier League games, with only three league goals.

Maresca has openly admitted Nkunku isn’t a number nine, and he’s only now getting more of a run in the side due to injuries, but he’s certainly not making the most of it.

Nkunku offered very little against Arsenal. (Photo by Alex Pantling/Getty Images)

The 27-year-old was close to leaving in January with Bayern Munich interested, and it seems likely he will leave in the summer.

Craig Burley has branded the attacker a waste of money, and there’s no doubt he’s been a huge disappointment given the quality he possesses.

However, Merson has a theory as to why the former RB Leipzig star has struggled and believes he’s an intelligent footballer.

“He’s an intelligent footballer, connects things, but the problem is Palmer’s been outstanding,” he told Sky Sports.

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“I don’t think Chelsea were foreseeing Palmer being as good as what he was hence why they bought Nkunku for a lot of money.”

Maresca has got to try and get something out of Nkunku over the remaining games if Chelsea are going to qualify for the Champions League.