Nkunku 'surprised' by Milan sale, questions club's decision
Quick summary
Christopher Nkunku has expressed surprise at being sold by AC Milan, saying he does not understand the club's decision to let him go.
Full article
Attributed to original sourceChristopher Nkunku admits he was surprised by Milan’s decision to send him back to RB Leipzig and says he still does not understand why the Rossoneri handled his departure that way.
The French forward returned to Leipzig after just one season at Milan, having joined the Italian side from Chelsea in the summer of 2025.
Reflecting on his time between Chelsea and Milan, Nkunku said in comments via Calciomercato.com : “When I went to Chelsea, things started well and then I suffered an injury at the end of the last friendly. After that, everything changed. I had my first operation, I wanted to get back on the pitch quickly and there were also many changes. I didn’t like my role at Chelsea.
“At Milan, on the other hand, I didn’t have any injuries, but the football philosophy was different from mine. So, as soon as I had the opportunity to come back here and play my football, I took it.”
PISA, ITALY – FEBRUARY 13: Christopher Nkuku of AC Milan in action during the Serie A match between Pisa SC and AC Milan at Arena Garibaldi on February 13, 2026 in Pisa, Italy. (Photo by Gabriele Maltinti/Getty Images) Nkunku: ‘I don’t understand why Milan acted that way’ Nkunku was then asked about Milan’s decision to let him leave.
“It’s a decision that has to be respected, but I didn’t understand why they acted that way either. I was surprised. In any case, I wish them a good season.”
The 28-year-old is nevertheless happy to have returned to Leipzig.
“I’m very happy to be here and I’m convinced I made the right decision. The first week has been fantastic and the team made me feel very welcome.”
MILAN, ITALY – MAY 10: Christopher Nkunku of AC Milan scores his team’s second goal from a penalty kick during the Serie A match between AC Milan and Atalanta BC at Giuseppe Meazza Stadium on May 10, 2026 in Milan, Italy. (Photo by Marco Luzzani/Getty Images) Nkunku scored seven goals in 32 Serie A appearances last season. Milan have loaned him to Leipzig for €4m, with an option to buy for €28m.
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What happened
Christopher Nkunku has publicly stated he is 'surprised' by AC Milan's decision to sell him, admitting he 'doesn't understand why they acted that way.' The forward, who had been at Milan on loan from Chelsea, had expected to continue his stint at the San Siro before being informed of the club's intention to part ways. His comments underline a disconnect between the player's expectations and Milan's sporting direction, and raise questions about Chelsea's next move regarding his future.
Chance analysis
Public comments like these rarely emerge without friction behind the scenes, and Nkunku's tone suggests he felt undervalued by a club he had committed to. For Milan, the decision to cash in on a player still adapting to Serie A signals a clear strategic pivot rather than a performance-based call. For Chelsea, the immediate question is whether to reintegrate him, loan him out again, or pursue a permanent sale, with his value likely shaped by how this disagreement is perceived by suitors.
Nkunku loses his place in Milan's project and faces an uncertain immediate future, while Milan frees a squad slot and salary for alternative targets.