Christopher Nkunku says he was surprised by AC Milan’s decision to let him leave after just one season, admitting he “didn’t understand” why the Italian club chose to part company with him.
The France forward, 28, joined AC Milan from Chelsea in the summer of 2025 but found it difficult to settle in Serie A. He scored eight goals and provided three assists in 35 appearances across all competitions before returning to RB Leipzig.
Nkunku said Milan’s decision was unexpected, although he also acknowledged that the club’s footballing philosophy was not suited to his own style.
“When I went to Chelsea, things started well and then I suffered an injury at the end of the last friendly. After that, everything changed,” he said in comments reported by Calciomercato.com.
“I had my first operation, I wanted to get back on the pitch quickly and there were also many changes. I didn’t like my role at Chelsea.
“At Milan, on the other hand, I didn’t have any injuries, but the football philosophy was different from mine. So, as soon as I had the opportunity to come back here and play my football, I took it.”
Nkunku was then asked directly about AC Milan’s decision to release him.
“It’s a decision that has to be respected, but I didn’t understand why they acted that way either. I was surprised. In any case, I wish them a good season," he added.
Despite his frustration, Nkunku said he had accepted the decision and was pleased to have returned to RB Leipzig, where he had the opportunity to play in a system more suited to him.
“I’m very happy to be here and I’m convinced I made the right decision. The first week has been fantastic and the team made me feel very welcome.”
His return to RB Leipzig follows a difficult period that began at Chelsea. Nkunku said his time there started positively before an injury suffered at the end of a pre-season friendly changed the course of his spell. He underwent his first operation and tried to return quickly, while also dealing with several changes at the club.
He later moved to AC Milan, where he avoided injury but struggled to adapt to the club’s approach. His eight goals and three assists in 35 matches did not prevent Milan from allowing him to depart after one season.
Nkunku’s comments make clear that he felt the move back to RB Leipzig offered the best chance to rediscover his form and play in a way that suited him. Although he remains puzzled by AC Milan’s decision, he has wished the club well for the new season and is focused on making a positive start after returning to Germany.