Nkunku questions AC Milan decision after sealing RB Leipzig loan return
Christopher Nkunku has returned to RB Leipzig on loan after AC Milan moved him on only a year after paying €37 million (£31m) to sign him from Chelsea, with a further €5m (£4m) potentially due in add-ons.
The France international completed a €4m (£3.4m) loan back to Leipzig late in the transfer window. The agreement gives the Bundesliga club the right to buy him permanently for €28m (£24m).
Nkunku’s Milan spell brought eight goals in 34 appearances across all competitions. He scored seven times in 32 Serie A matches and once in two Coppa Italia outings, while remaining free of injuries throughout the campaign. Even so, the Rossoneri decided he was no longer part of their plans.
Nkunku surprised by Milan exit
Speaking before Leipzig’s Champions League meeting with Como, Nkunku said he had not been given an explanation for Milan’s decision. Leipzig were subsequently beaten 4-1 by Como in the European fixture.
“It was Milan’s choice and I have to respect it, but I do not know the reason behind it,” Nkunku said. “It caught me by surprise, although I hope they have a good season.”
The 28-year-old linked his departure to a difference in footballing ideas rather than any fitness concern. He said Milan’s approach under Amorim did not suit the way he wanted to play.
“I had no injury problems in Milan, but we saw football differently,” he said. “When the chance came to return here and play in a way that suits me, I took it.”
Fresh start after Chelsea and Milan
Nkunku also reflected on a difficult period at Chelsea, where an injury at the end of pre-season disrupted his start in England. He underwent surgery and felt that a series of changes at the club, as well as his assigned role, left him unhappy.
“My time at Chelsea began positively, then I was injured near the end of the final friendly and everything changed,” he said. “After my first operation, I wanted to return as soon as possible. There were many changes and I was not comfortable with the role I had there.”
His move back to Leipzig offers the forward familiar surroundings after three frustrating years split between Chelsea and Milan. Nkunku said he had alternatives but chose Leipzig after speaking with head coach Martin Demichelis.
“I am delighted to be back and believe it was the correct move,” he said. “The first week has been excellent and everyone has welcomed me. I wanted this return, I wanted to play my football, and after talking with the coach I felt this was where I needed to be.”
Leipzig must now respond after their 4-1 loss to Como left Demichelis’ side with a difficult start to their European campaign. Nkunku’s immediate objective is to help the team recover while rebuilding his own form.
“I want to enjoy playing again, contribute to the side and give everything,” he said. “I am hungry. The past three years have not unfolded as I hoped, and now I want to enjoy football.”
