Nkunku has broken his silence on his abrupt departure from AC Milan, admitting he was "surprised" by the club's decision to let him leave just one year after signing him from Chelsea.
The French forward returned to RB Leipzig on loan with an option to buy in late August, bringing to an end a disappointing spell in Serie A. Nkunku scored eight goals and provided three assists in 35 appearances for Milan, a significant drop-off from the prolific form he had shown in Germany prior to his 2023 move to Stamford Bridge.
Speaking to Calciomercato.com, Nkunku reflected on a turbulent two years that began with his €60 million move to Chelsea. An injury in the final pre-season friendly of his debut campaign derailed his progress in London, where he managed 18 goals and five assists in 62 appearances across all competitions.
"When I came to Chelsea it started well, but then I got injured in the last pre-season match. After that everything changed. I had my first operation, wanted to get back on the pitch quickly, and there were also a lot of changes. I didn't feel comfortable with my role at Chelsea," Nkunku said.
His move to Milan was intended to revive his career, yet the fit proved no better. The Rossoneri paid a reported €35 million for his services but were underwhelmed by his return and elected to cut their losses after a single season.
"At Milan, on the other hand, I didn't suffer any injuries, but the football philosophy was different from my own. So when I got the chance to come back here and play my type of football, I took it. It is a decision that must be respected, but I also didn't understand why they acted the way they did. I was surprised. Anyway, I wish them a good season."
Nkunku is now back at the club where he enjoyed his most productive years, scoring 47 goals in 119 Bundesliga appearances between 2019 and 2023. He was named the Bundesliga Player of the Season in 2021-22 and finished as the league's top scorer the following campaign.
"I am very happy to be here and am convinced that I made the right decision. The first week has been fantastic and the team has made me feel very welcome," he said.
Leipzig will hope that a return to familiar surroundings can rekindle the form that once made Nkunku one of Europe's most sought-after attackers.