GdS: Nkunku ‘running towards return’ vs. Pisa – why it would be crucial for Milan

Christopher Nkunku had to sit out of the Fiorentina game due to a toe problem, and he is hoping to recover for Friday’s contest against Pisa.

La Gazzetta dello Sport (seen below) recall this morning that the title of most expensive summer signing for Milan didn’t go to Ardon Jashari, who cost over €30m, nor to a Ballon d’Or winner like Luka Modric or a young domestic gem like Samuele Ricci.

The most expensive signing was Nkunku, who cost €37m plus bonuses. Just two summers earlier, the Blues had budgeted a €100m investment: €65m immediately to RB Leipzig to bring the striker to the Premier League, and another €35m if they won the Champions League in the following three years.

In truth though he struggled to establish himself: 18 goals in 62 total matches were not considered enough. A move to Milan a-la-Pulisic followed, but his time has been bumpy so far. After playing in the Club World Cup with Chelsea, Nkunku spent the rest of the summer training with Chelsea’s reserves.

Once at Milanello, in early September, his condition could not have been and was not optimal. His return to the national team in mid-October was both fortunate and unfortunate. He scored against Iceland after a long drought, but a knock to his foot prevented him from playing against Fiorentina.

Vying to return

On Tuesday, the Milan squad began work preparing for Friday’s match against Pisa. Everyone was scheduled to do light training, but Nkunku followed his individual routine, with positive results overall.

While the problem a few days ago was simply putting on his boots, the pain is now almost completely gone. The midweek forecasts inspire optimism, even if there is not much time given the league season will resume in 48 hours.

His presence alone would be invaluable: it’s difficult to imagine him starting, but his availability on the bench at least will allow Allegri to have three forwards to tackle the match. Among the reserve options, Nkunku could free up Santiago Gimenez to be used from the start, alongside Rafael Leao.

In terms of other injuries, Pervis Estupinan’s recovery is virtually ruled out, while Ruben Loftus-Cheek must be evaluated but is also a doubt. Adrien Rabiot, Christian Pulisic and Ardon Jashari are expected for the November derby, after the next international break.