The position of Christopher Nkunku in 2023/24 Fantasy Premier League and on the pitch may ultimately determine his appeal for FPL managers.
Chelsea’s new attacker arrives on the back of 16 goals and six assists for RB Leipzig in the 2022/23 Bundesliga.
Although he mainly played as a forward in a front two, the Frenchman also impressed in a No 10 role.
An all-round attacking prospect
Nkunku’s output in 2021/22 further highlights his versatility.
He produced 20 goals and 15 assists in 34 league appearances, featuring in all three attacking midfield positions as well as up front.
That ability to play in multiple roles could prove crucial for Chelsea’s new head coach Mauricio Pochettino.
The Argentinian is expected to continue with the 4-2-3-1 formation he favoured while at Tottenham Hotspur.
It remains to be seen whether he will pick Nkunku, who stands at 5ft 7in, as a lone forward or opt for a more physical presence up front.
Chelsea’s pre-season friendlies later this summer should give FPL managers a better indication of Pochettino’s plans.
A dream midfielder?
From a Fantasy perspective, Nkunku would be a more appealing pick if he is listed as a midfielder.
Should he feature as a forward for Pochettino, he would offer a strong “out of position” prospect for managers.
By contrast, Nkunku would be less enticing if he is listed as a forward in Fantasy and plays as a winger.
The early 2023/24 Premier League schedule gives Chelsea the chance to make an immediate impact on the new season.
According to the Fixture Difficulty Ratings (FDR), three of their first five matches score only two.
Chelsea's first five fixtures
| GW | Opp. | FDR |
|---|---|---|
| 1 | LIV (H) | 4 |
| 2 | WHU (A) | 3 |
| 3 | LUT (H) | 2 |
| 4 | NFO (H) | 2 |
| 5 | BOU (A) | 2 |
If Chelsea can click quickly under Pochettino, Nkunku could emerge as a popular early pick, particularly if he is listed as a midfielder in Fantasy.
Download: Complete FDR for 2023/24 (PDF, 220kb)
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Part 2: Advanced role will lift Mac Allister’s appeal
Part 4: Kluivert can continue rapid improvement
Part 5: How new role can help Havertz thrive
Part 6: How Maddison compares with Spurs' attackers
Part 7: Can Mount rival Rashford and Fernandes?
Part 8: Onana can be top-scoring goalkeeper
Part 9: Diaby can rival Watkins as best Villa pick