Christopher Nkunku: Scenes As Chelsea Fans Give Forward Standing Ovation After Making Debut

• Christopher Nkunku made his long-awaited competitive debut for Chelsea on Tuesday
• The former RB Leipzig star replaced Nicolas Jackson in his side's Carabao Cup tie
• Fans of the Blues offered a classy gesture towards the Frenchman after his introduction

Chelsea supporters were ecstatic as Christopher Nkunku finally made his much-anticipated debut for the club on Tuesday, December 19, prompting immense joy among the fans.

The French forward entered the fray, replacing Nicolas Jackson, with a mere 20 minutes remaining in the Carabao Cup quarter-final clash against Newcastle at Stamford Bridge.

Nkunku's Chelsea debut delayed by injuries

An impressive pre-season with Mauricio Pochettino's charges marked Nkunku's journey to this pivotal moment.

However, Football London reports that his ascent was interrupted by a serious knee injury just days before the commencement of the 2023–2024 EPL season, halting his progress.

Osimhen Marks His CAF Player of the Year Award With a Goal for Napoli Against Braga in UCL, Video

Football

After diligently completing his rehabilitation regimen, the former RB Leipzig superstar returned to first-team training in early December, working tirelessly to regain his fitness and sharpness.

Chelsea fans give Nkunku standing ovation

As Nkunku stepped onto the pitch, taking over Jackson's role in the attacking line, the Chelsea faithful erupted with a standing ovation, reflecting his return's immense anticipation, per ESPNFC.

The fervent hope among supporters is that the 26-year-old's addition could serve as the crucial piece in the puzzle, potentially propelling the Blues upward in the Premier League standings and securing consistent positive results for the team.

Here is the video:

What's next for Nkunku and Chelsea?

According to the BBC, the draw for the semi-finals takes place after Liverpool vs West Ham on Wednesday, with the first leg of those ties being played in the week commencing January 8.

In the interim, Nkunku will turn his attention to the Premier League, where the West Londoners will play as guests to struggling Wolverhampton Wanderers at the Molineux on Christmas Eve.

Man City youngsters shine to complete Champions League clean sweep

Football

Chelsea reach Carabao Cup semis

With Mykhailo Mudryk's thrilling last-gasp equaliser, Chelsea clawed from the jaws of defeat to edge Newcastle and advance to the Carabao Cup semi-finals, Sports Brief reported.

Second-tier Middlesbrough defeated Port Vale 3-0, and Fulham defeated Everton on penalties to join Mauricio Pochettino's team in the semis.

Chelsea's third penalty was converted by Nkunku, marking his first noteworthy club contribution as the Blues advanced to the competition's final four.