Christopher Nkunku Returns to RB Leipzig

Posted : 18 September 2026

Christopher Nkunku has returned to RB Leipzig on loan from AC Milan, hoping to revive his career and rediscover the enjoyment that he feels has been missing in recent years. The 28-year-old French forward spent two seasons at Chelsea before moving to Italy, where he also struggled to consistently reproduce his best form.

Nkunku enjoyed the most productive period of his career during his first spell at Leipzig between 2019 and 2023. He recorded 47 goals and 43 assists in 119 Bundesliga appearances, won consecutive German Cups and was named Bundesliga Player of the Season for the 2021/22 campaign.

His performances earned him a move to Chelsea in 2023, but his time in England was disrupted by injuries and competition for places. Nkunku suffered a knee injury before making his Chelsea debut and later admitted that he returned too quickly, after which he experienced several smaller fitness problems.

The Frenchman also found it difficult to establish a regular role under Enzo Maresca. Nkunku explained that although he had enjoyed a strong pre-season, the Chelsea coach preferred other players or used him in different positions.

After two seasons in London, Nkunku joined AC Milan. His time in Italy brought another challenge, as he struggled to make a significant impact in a more defensive tactical environment. He finished his spell with eight goals and three assists in 35 appearances.

When Leipzig presented the opportunity to return, Nkunku said he did not hesitate. The Bundesliga club secured him on a season-long loan from Milan with an option to buy, giving the forward an opportunity to return to the environment where he previously enjoyed the best football of his career.

“I need to enjoy football again,” Nkunku said, explaining that he wants to concentrate on playing, express himself on the pitch and regain the freedom he once had.

His return has already received a positive response from Leipzig supporters. In his first appearance back at the club, he provided an assist shortly after coming off the bench, before later scoring his first goal since returning in Leipzig’s 5-0 Bundesliga victory over Hamburger SV.

Leipzig sporting director Marcel Schäfer believes Nkunku can provide qualities the squad currently lacks, while also stressing that the club does not expect him to immediately recreate the form that previously made him one of the Bundesliga’s standout players.

Nkunku also wants to take on greater responsibility within Leipzig’s young squad. Having experienced the demands of top-level football, he says he now wants to help younger teammates understand what is required to compete at the highest level.

Beyond rebuilding his club career, Nkunku has another major ambition: returning to the France national team. He also spoke positively about the possibility of working with Zinedine Zidane, highlighting the former France international’s experience and attacking background.

For Nkunku, the Leipzig return represents more than another transfer. It is an opportunity to regain confidence, enjoy football again and rebuild the momentum that once made him one of Europe’s most highly regarded attacking players.

Christopher Nkunku Returns to RB Leipzig

ADD A COMMENT :

Hot Topics