No injury for Nkunku as Maresca makes technical call

The French forward, fully fit and available, was left out of Sunday's 2-1 Premier League win at Stamford Bridge, with Maresca later explaining it was "just my decision".

Maresca has shown a willingness to make bold calls in pursuit of the right balance on the pitch. His decision to exclude Nkunku follows similar choices earlier in the season, with players like Noni Madueke and Renato Veiga also sidelined at key moments for technical reasons.

This latest move paid off as Chelsea secured victory thanks to a stoppage-time winner from Pedro Neto. Nkunku, signed for €70 million, has struggled to find consistent form since arriving in west London.

Despite flashes of quality, the former RB Leipzig man has failed to make a sustained impact, leading to growing frustration among fans and sparking speculation over his long-term future at the club.

With Chelsea chasing a European spot, the manager appears focused on selecting only those he feels best fit his tactical approach, regardless of price tags or reputations.