Enzo Maresca Lauds Nicolas Jackson’s Rise: Chelsea’s New Attacking Dynamo
Enzo Maresca is singing the praises of Nicolas Jackson, hailing the striker’s brilliant contributions this season as he steps up in style at Chelsea.
Jackson, who arrived at Stamford Bridge in 2023 from Villarreal in a £32 million transfer, is now enjoying his second season with the Blues. After an impressive debut season—netting 17 goals in all competitions, including 14 in the Premier League—Jackson earned a two-year contract extension, securing his place at Chelsea until 2033.
Maresca’s High Praise for Jackson
With Chelsea’s summer search for a striker ending without a big signing, Jackson has embraced the challenge, proving that the club’s patience may have paid off. The 23-year-old Senegalese forward has already tallied five goals and three assists in eight Premier League matches this season. “[He’s very important for us],” said Maresca. “On the ball he’s working fantastic—scoring, assisting, linking with teammates. Off the ball, he’s pressing exactly how we want. He’s doing fantastic with us.”
Even Chelsea legend Daniel Sturridge has noted Jackson’s impact, calling him “pivotal” to Chelsea’s system. His impressive form has even kept star signing Christopher Nkunku on the sidelines, but despite Jackson’s promising start, pundit Gary Neville still suggests Chelsea need a world-class striker to truly compete for the title.
Left out of Thursday’s Conference League clash against Panathinaikos, Jackson will be fresh for Chelsea’s upcoming Premier League showdown with Newcastle.
A Bright Future Ahead
If Jackson continues his current trajectory, he could easily surpass last season’s tally of 14 Premier League goals. Given Chelsea’s ability to create chances, 20 league goals could be well within reach if he remains fit and sharp in front of goal.
