Long criticized and sometimes mocked for his difficulty finding the back of the net, Nicolas Jackson (23 years old), is reversing the trend and establishing himself as a real asset for Chelsea. Arriving with high expectations, the young Senegalese, often compared to Didier Drogba, was quickly confronted with the pressure of the supporters and the demands of the media. However, this season, he finally seems to have set his sights and found his bearings in the demanding world of the Premier League.
Since May 2024, only Erling Haaland (15 goals in this period) has scored more goals than Nicolas Jackson (8 goals) in the Premier League. The Senegalese striker has shone in his last outings, scoring twice in 20 minutes and providing an assist in Chelsea’s last match against West Ham. In just five matches, he has already scored four goals and provided two assists, proving that he has become a key element of his team. Moreover, the Senegalese player is in the Premier League’s starting XI at the end of Matchday 5.
The numbers speak for themselves: at the start of the championship, Jackson scores a goal on average every 92 minutes, with a playing time of 73 minutes per match. The Blues’ number 15, who stands out for his intelligent movements and sharp ball calls, also creates two clear chances per match. A ratio which testifies to his influence on Chelsea’s game, currently ranked 5th with 10 points, three lengths behind the leader Man City.
This rise in power has not escaped the attention of Enzo Maresca, the new Blues coach, who quickly designated Jackson as his number one striker. A way of closing the debate and demonstrating his confidence in his striker. Although he almost found himself in competition with the Nigerian Victor Osimhen, whose transfer ultimately fell through this summer, Nico Jackson is determined to impose himself in the hierarchy of attackers. In the coach’s game plans, players like Christopher Nkunku and Marc Gui are still behind him, thus reinforcing his status as No. 1.
Last season, Nicolas Jackson played in 35 games, scoring 14 goals and providing 5 assists. A record that is reminiscent of the early days of his idol, Didier Drogba, who did not do better in the Premier League. With such form, Jackson could well become the new terror of opposing defenses. Chelsea fans can hope to see their striker shine and lead the team to the top of the PL. The future looks bright for “N15.”
