Who is Christopher Nkunku?
Christopher Alan Nkunku is a French Professional Footballer player who currently plays for Chelsea, his dynamism gives him the ability to play in all positions the attacking third: winger, second-striker, and attacking midfielder.
| Date of birth | 14 November 1997 |
| Place of birth | Lagny-sur-Mame, France |
| positions | Forward, attacking midfielder |
| Current Team | Chelsea |
| Number | 18 |
Early Life
Christopher Nkunku, born on November 14, 1997, in Lagny-sur-Marne, France, began his football journey at six with AS Marolles. By 2009, he joined Fontainebleau, where he caught the attention of scouts for his speed, technique, and game vision, despite his small physique. Nkunku’s versatility across midfield positions was attributed to his technical skills and game intelligence, according to Fontainebleau coaches.
Initially, clubs like Lens, Le Havre, and Monaco passed on him due to his age and size. However, he eventually signed with Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) and joined INF Clairefontaine’s elite youth program at the U15 level. While training weekdays at Clairefontaine, he played weekends with PSG, fully transitioning to PSG at age 15, where he continued his development.
Personal Life
Nkunku was in a relationship with Amelle, the relationship birthed a son. Currently, he is single. He disclosed that his iconic balloon celebration is for his son.
Club Career
Nkunku has had an illustrious career so far, he has played for top clubs in three of the top 5 leagues in Europe.
Nkunku joined PSG youth academy in 2010, he made his senior debut at the tender age of 18 against Shakhtar Donetsk in the Champions League.
It was at Leipzig that Nkunku carved a name for himself as a top-talented footballer. He joined the German club for 13 million Euros which in hindsight would turn out to be a steal as he turned out to be Leipzig’s fifth-highest goal scorer with a total of 70 goals and 56 assists.
He has won many team and individual awards notable among them are the DFB-Pokal he won with his teammates at Leipzig as well as the Bundesliga Player of the Season in the 2021/2022 season, the season after he won the Bundesliga top scorer award netting 16 goals — he was joint top scorer with Dortmund’s Füllkrug.
Nkunku did not start life as he would have wanted at Stamford Bridge— he went on a season-long injury and it did not help that his team, Chelsea were going through a rebuild. Notwithstanding his injury did not stop him from showing a glimpse of how prolific he is as he has scored 11 goals in 27 games.
International Career
Christopher Nkunku, born in France with Congolese heritage, has represented France across youth levels, including under-16, under-19, under-20, and under-21. He played in the 2017 FIFA U-20 World Cup, making three appearances for the French U20 team.
In March 2022, Christopher Nkunku received his first senior call-up for France in friendly matches against Ivory Coast and South Africa, debuting as a starter against Ivory Coast. He was later named to France’s 2022 FIFA World Cup squad but withdrew due to a knee injury after a training collision with Eduardo Camavinga. Nkunku scored his first senior goal on October 10, 2024, in a 4–1 away win over Israel.
He has made only 10 caps for France as he is finding it hard to make the French first team.
Net Worth And Endorsements
Nkunku earns £195,000 weekly at Chelsea with no bonuses, he signed a 6-year contract with the London club. His net worth is estimated to be around £32,912,880. He has an endorsement deal with Adidas and other top brands— you can get more information on Nkunku endorsements here
Style of Play
Christopher Nkunku thrives in pockets— those central zones around the opponent’s box are where you would love him to have the ball if you are a Chelsea or French fan. His strength and shooting power give him an edge in those pockets areas.
Achievements
Nkunku is in the peak age of football, therefore it is no surprise that he has won numerous individual and team awards and trophies.
Individual awards:
- Bundesliga Top Scorer 2022/2023
- Bundesliga MVP 2021/2022
- RB Leipzig 5th all time highest scorer
Team trophies:
- DFB-POKAL Cup with RB Leipzig
- Ligue 1 winners
- Coupe de France
Social Media Handles
Instagram: @c_nkunku
X( Formerly Twitter): @c_nk97
Frequently Asked Questions About Christopher Nkunku
How old is Christopher Nkunku?
Christopher Nkunku was born on the 14th of November 1997 and is 27 years old.
Nkunku height:
Nkunku is 1.77m about 5 feet 10 inches.
Nkunku Best Position:
Nkunku is a dynamic player, his best position is anywhere in the final third but he has fared more as an attacking midfielder.
Nkunku Family: Parents and siblings.
It is said that it was Nkunku’s father, Efo Mawuli Nukunu who supported in his football career. There is little to no information about his mother and his two siblings ( a sister and a brother)— it is evident that his family loves to keep a low profile.
Nkunku’s Celebration:
Nkunku has said his iconic balloon celebration is for his son, “ he likes balloon so i just keep on doing it” the Chelsea forwards says.
Is Christopher Nkunku a Nigerian?
Nkunku is not Nigerian as he is of Congolese descent.
Source: Footygazette.com
