Christopher Nkunku uses break from club duty to sharpen fitness at Leipzig

Christopher Nkunku is using the international break to improve his conditioning following his return to RB Leipzig.

The 28-year-old forward has contributed one goal and two assists in his first five competitive appearances, but he has yet to reach the level expected of him.

A lack of a full summer preparation is thought to be a key reason. Before joining Leipzig on loan from AC Milan, Nkunku trained individually rather than with a team, leaving him short of match rhythm and the physical base needed for regular Bundesliga football.

The France international has responded by arranging additional sessions with a personal trainer in France. His work has included ball exercises and resistance training designed to sharpen his acceleration, speed and explosiveness. Leipzig also want him to grow more familiar with coach Martín Demichelis’ tactical approach.

Nkunku has until Leipzig’s Bundesliga meeting with Eintracht Frankfurt on October 10 to continue his work. The next five weeks will be demanding, with nine fixtures scheduled across all competitions. That run should offer the attacker opportunities to regain sharpness and establish a more influential role.

Leipzig will hope the extra work pays off quickly, as Nkunku’s quality could be central to the club’s attacking ambitions throughout the autumn period.