The manager dubbed “magic” during his time at Tottenham has rapidly waved his wand in west London, imprinting his beliefs on a previously fractured squad.
Mauricio Pochettino’s rebuild will likely take time, but the early signs are extremely encouraging, with newcomers Christopher Nkunku and Nicolas Jackson playing key roles in pre-season.
However, Nkunku will miss the start of the 2023/24 season after suffering a knee injury in the Blues’ pre-season match with Borussia Dortmund.
When will Christopher Nkunku return from injury?
Nkunku was pulled off midway through the first half of Chelsea’s friendly versus Dortmund due to “apparent knee discomfort.”
There was some hope that their new summer signing had averted a huge issue, but Pochettino was fairly reserved after the game. Following additional evaluation, it became evident that Nkunku had suffered a catastrophic knee injury, and Chelsea just acknowledged that the former RB Leipzig player will miss the start of the 2023/24 season after undergoing surgery.
“Nkunku has sustained a knee injury which will rule the forward out for an extended period,” the club said in a statement.
“The 25-year-old has undergone an operation and will now begin a rehabilitation programme with the club’s medical department.”
The 25-year-old is said to have suffered meniscus injury to his left knee while out in Chicago and might be absent for up to three and a half months. Chelsea fans may not see the Frenchman play until the end of 2023.
Chelsea’s pre-season
Chelsea had a fantastic pre-season tour, winning the inaugural Premier League Summer Series in the United States.
The Blues won the summer event by defeating Brighton 4-3, cruising past Fulham 2-0, and drawing 1-1 with Newcastle.
Poch’s team then stayed in the country to face Borussia Dortmund on Wednesday night at Soldier Field, home of the Chicago Bears. The Germans gained a late lead through Marius Wolf before Mason Burstow, 19, equalized in the 89th minute.
Not only have the results been positive, but so have the performances. While Chelsea were a difficult team to watch in 2022/23, Pochettino’s influence will undoubtedly improve their watchability next season and beyond. The Argentine has already made an impression.