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Nicolas Jackson
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Nicolas Jackson (born 20 June 2001) is a Senegalese professional footballer who plays as a striker for Bundesliga club Bayern Munich, on loan from Premier League club Chelsea, and the Senegal national team.
Key Information
Jackson played for Casa Sports in Senegal before joining Villarreal in 2019. After a loan to Mirandés in the Segunda División, he broke through in the reserve team and made his first-team debut in La Liga in 2021. In 2023, he signed an eight-year deal at Chelsea for a reported fee of £32 million.
Jackson made his senior international debut for Senegal in 2022. He was selected in the Senegalese squads for the 2022 FIFA World Cup and the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations.
Early life
[edit]Jackson's birthplace is uncertain: several sources claim he was born in Banjul, The Gambia,[4][5] while Chelsea and Bayern official profiles claim he was born in Djibonker, Senegal,[6] to a Gambian father and Senegalese mother. In 2017, in the aftermath of the 2016 Gambian presidential election, the family moved to Ziguinchor, Senegal.[7][8]
Club career
[edit]Early career
[edit]Jackson began playing for local side ASC Tilene before joining Casa Sports,[9] where he was a part of the first team squad during the 2018–19 season.[10][11] He was also named man of the match in a 1–1 Ligue 1 draw against AS Pikine on 16 November 2018.[12][13]
Villarreal
[edit]In September 2019, Jackson agreed to a contract with La Liga side Villarreal,[14][15] being assigned to the Juvenil A squad.
Loan to Mirandés
[edit]On 5 October 2020, Jackson was loaned to Segunda División side Mirandés for the 2020–21 season.[16] He made his professional debut thirteen days later, coming on as a second-half substitute for Antonio Caballero in a 0–0 home draw against Mallorca.[17]
Jackson scored his first professional goal on 28 November 2020, netting the opener in a 1–1 home draw against Castellón.[18] It was his only goal of the season as the Jabatos finished in 10th place.
Breakthrough
[edit]Upon returning, Jackson played for Villarreal's B-team in Primera División RFEF, scoring seven goals as the side achieved promotion to the second division. He made his first team – and La Liga – debut on 3 October 2021, replacing Arnaut Danjuma late into a 2–0 home win over Real Betis.[19]
Jackson scored his first goal in the top tier on 13 August 2022, netting the opener in a 3–0 away win over Real Valladolid. Thirteen days later, he and teammate Álex Baena were promoted to the main squad.[20]
In January 2023, Villarreal agreed a £22.5 million deal from AFC Bournemouth for the signing of Jackson, but he failed his medical due to hamstring issues, and the transfer did not materialise.[21] After returning to action in March, he scored nine goals within the months of April and May, which included braces against Celta Vigo, Athletic Bilbao and Cádiz.
Chelsea
[edit]
On 30 June 2023, Jackson signed for Premier League club Chelsea on an eight-year deal through 2031 for a fee reported to be £32 million.[22] On 13 August, he made his debut for the club in a 1–1 draw against Liverpool in the Premier League.[23] He scored his first Chelsea goal on 25 August 2023 against newly promoted side Luton Town, helping Chelsea to a 3–0 win at Stamford Bridge.[24] On 6 November, Jackson scored twice in second-half stoppage time to complete a hat-trick in a 4–1 away win over Tottenham Hotspur.[25] He scored again in the next match against Manchester City FC, which ended in a 4–4 home draw.[26]
On 15 April 2024, Jackson scored his tenth Premier League goal of the season, and provided an assist for Cole Palmer's goal in a 6–0 win over Everton. As Palmer had already reached double digits in league goals, this became the first Chelsea season since 2017–18 in which two players had scored ten or more Premier League goals in a season.[27] On 5 May 2024, Jackson scored twice and provided an assist for Palmer in a 5–0 home win over West Ham United.[28] He scored 14 league goals across 35 appearances, making him to make him the second highest African goal scorer in the 2023–24 season only behind Liverpool's Mohamed Salah.[29]
On 13 September 2024, Jackson signed a two-year contract extension with Chelsea, extending his contract until 2033.[30] He won the Premier League Goal of the Month award for October 2024 for the opening goal of a 2–1 win over Newcastle United on 27 October.[31][32]
On 1 May 2025, Jackson scored a brace in the first leg of the Conference League semi-final which ended in a 4–1 away win over Djurgården.[33] He was later sent off on 11 May for a deliberate elbow in a Premier League match against Newcastle United.[34] On 28 May, he netted the second goal for Chelsea in a 4–1 win over Real Betis in the 2025 UEFA Conference League final.[35] A month later, on 20 June, he was shown a straight red card for a reckless challenge just four minutes after coming on as a substitute in a 3–1 loss to Flamengo during the 2025 FIFA Club World Cup.[36]
Loan to Bayern Munich
[edit]On 1 September 2025, Jackson joined Bundesliga club Bayern Munich on a season-long loan with a reported fee of €16.5m.[37] Later that month, on 30 September, he scored his first goal for the club in a 5–1 away win over Pafos in the Champions League.[38]
International career
[edit]Jackson represented Senegal at under-20 level,[39][40] receiving his first call-up in November 2018.[41]
After being called up to the full side by manager Aliou Cissé for two friendlies in September 2022, Jackson was included in the 26-man list for the 2022 FIFA World Cup on 11 November 2022.[42] He made his full international debut in Senegal's opening match of the competition, replacing Krépin Diatta in a 2–0 loss against the Netherlands.[43]
In December 2023, he was named in Senegal's squad for the postponed 2023 Africa Cup of Nations held in the Ivory Coast.[44] He came on as a substitute in all four games as the defending champions made it to the last 16.[45]
On 11 October 2024, he scored his first international goal, concluding a 4–0 home win over Malawi in 2025 Africa Cup of Nations qualification.[46]
Career statistics
[edit]Club
[edit]- As of match played 1 November 2025[47]
| Club | Season | League | National cup[a] | League cup[b] | Europe | Other | Total | |||||||
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Division | Apps | Goals | Apps | Goals | Apps | Goals | Apps | Goals | Apps | Goals | Apps | Goals | ||
| Mirandés | 2020–21 | Segunda División | 16 | 1 | 1 | 0 | — | — | — | 17 | 1 | |||
| Villarreal B | 2021–22 | Primera División RFEF | 25 | 5 | — | — | — | 2[c] | 2 | 27 | 7 | |||
| Villarreal | 2021–22 | La Liga | 9 | 0 | 1 | 0 | — | 0 | 0 | — | 10 | 0 | ||
| 2022–23 | La Liga | 26 | 12 | 2 | 0 | — | 10[d] | 1 | — | 38 | 13 | |||
| Total | 35 | 12 | 3 | 0 | — | 10 | 1 | — | 48 | 13 | ||||
| Chelsea | 2023–24 | Premier League | 35 | 14 | 4 | 2 | 5 | 1 | — | — | 44 | 17 | ||
| 2024–25 | Premier League | 30 | 10 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 0 | 4[e] | 3 | 3[f] | 0 | 37 | 13 | |
| Total | 65 | 24 | 4 | 2 | 5 | 1 | 4 | 3 | 3 | 0 | 81 | 30 | ||
| Bayern Munich (loan) | 2025–26 | Bundesliga | 7 | 1 | 1 | 0 | — | 3[g] | 2 | — | 11 | 3 | ||
| Career total | 148 | 43 | 9 | 2 | 5 | 1 | 17 | 6 | 5 | 2 | 184 | 54 | ||
- ^ Includes Copa del Rey, FA Cup
- ^ Includes EFL Cup
- ^ Appearances in Primera Federación promotion play-offs
- ^ Appearances in UEFA Europa Conference League
- ^ Appearances in UEFA Conference League
- ^ Appearances in FIFA Club World Cup
- ^ Appearance in UEFA Champions League
International
[edit]- As of match played 14 October 2025[48]
| National team | Year | Apps | Goals |
|---|---|---|---|
| Senegal | 2022 | 1 | 0 |
| 2023 | 5 | 0 | |
| 2024 | 13 | 1 | |
| 2025 | 5 | 2 | |
| Total | 24 | 3 | |
- Senegal score listed first, score column indicates score after each Jackson goal.
| No. | Date | Venue | Cap | Opponent | Score | Result | Competition | Ref. |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | 11 October 2024 | Diamniadio Olympic Stadium, Dakar, Senegal | 17 | 4–0 | 4–0 | 2025 Africa Cup of Nations qualification | [49] | |
| 2 | 9 September 2025 | Stade des Martyrs, Kinshasa, DR Congo | 22 | 2–2 | 3–2 | 2026 FIFA World Cup qualification | ||
| 3 | 10 October 2025 | Juba Stadium, Juba, South Sudan | 23 | 4–0 | 5–0 | 2026 FIFA World Cup qualification |
Honours
[edit]Chelsea
Individual
References
[edit]- ^ "FIFA World Cup Qatar 2022 – Squad list: Senegal (SEN)" (PDF). FIFA. 15 November 2022. p. 25. Archived (PDF) from the original on 22 November 2022. Retrieved 15 November 2022.
- ^ "Nicolas Jackson". Epic Sports. Archived from the original on 25 October 2020. Retrieved 7 October 2020.
- ^ "Nicolas Jackson". Chelsea FC. Archived from the original on 5 March 2024. Retrieved 10 November 2023.
- ^ Lowe, Sid (4 July 2023). "Street football to Premier League: Nicolas Jackson's road to Chelsea". The Guardian. Retrieved 26 October 2024.
Born in Banjul, the Gambia, he was raised in Ziguinchor, in the rural Casamance region of southern Senegal, [...]
- ^ "Gambie : Nicolas Jackson n'a pas oublié sa terre natale, découvrez le beau geste de l'international sénégalais (photos)" [The Gambia: Nicolas Jackson has not forgotten the land of his birth, discover the beautiful gesture of the Senegalese international (photos)] (in French). Senenews. 26 June 2024. Archived from the original on 10 September 2024. Retrieved 26 October 2024.
- ^ "FC Bayern verpflichtet Nicolas Jackson". FC Bayern Munich. 1 September 2025.
- ^ "Nicolas Jackson arrives at Chelsea, hoping to emulate African heroes". FIFA. 6 July 2023. Archived from the original on 30 January 2024. Retrieved 30 January 2024.
- ^ Ceesay, Ebrima (3 September 2023). "NICHOLAS JACKSON: GAMBIA'S LOSS IS SENEGAL'S GAIN". Alkamba Times. Archived from the original on 30 January 2024. Retrieved 20 February 2024.
- ^ "Nicholas Jackson: The rise from Casa Sport to Chelsea". Sport News Africa. 30 June 2023. Archived from the original on 30 June 2023. Retrieved 30 June 2023.
- ^ "Nicolas Jackson" (in French). Ligue Sénégalaise de Football Professionnel. Archived from the original on 21 April 2024. Retrieved 7 October 2020.
- ^ "Jackson on his journey from street footballer to Chelsea star". Chelsea FC. 16 September 2023. Archived from the original on 29 September 2023. Retrieved 19 September 2023.
- ^ "AS Pikine vs Casa Sports (1–1): les Pikinois tenus en échec à domicile" [AS Pikine vs Casa Sports (1–1): the Pikinois held in check at home] (in French). Ligue Sénégalaise de Football Professionnel. 23 November 2018. Archived from the original on 21 April 2024. Retrieved 7 October 2020.
- ^ "Des verts de la Casamance aux Blues londoniens, la fulgurante ascension de Nicolas Jackson" [From the greens of Casamance to the London Blues, the meteoric rise of Nicolas Jackson] (in French). Africa Foot. 25 June 2023. Archived from the original on 30 June 2023. Retrieved 30 June 2023.
- ^ "Mercato: Diomansy Camara fait signer un joueur du Casa Sport à Villarreal" [Transfer market: Diomansy Camara signs a Casa Sport player at Villarreal] (in French). Galsenfoot. 4 September 2019. Retrieved 7 October 2020.
- ^ "El Villarreal firma al joven delantero Nicolás Jackson el 'Neymar' senegalés para uno de sus dos filiales" [Villarreal sign young forward Nicolás Jackson the Senegalese 'Neymar' to one of their reserve teams] (in Spanish). Castellón Información. 3 September 2019. Archived from the original on 9 October 2020. Retrieved 7 October 2020.
- ^ "Jackson will play on loan at Mirandés". Villarreal CF. 5 October 2020. Archived from the original on 30 October 2022. Retrieved 7 October 2020.
- ^ "Un cerocerismo injusto por lo visto en Anduva" [An unfair 0–0 for what it was seen in Anduva]. Marca (in Spanish). 18 October 2020. Archived from the original on 18 April 2023. Retrieved 18 October 2020.
- ^ "El Castellón se crece y araña un buen punto de Anduva" [Castellón grow big and scratch a good point out of Anduva]. Marca (in Spanish). Spain. 28 November 2020. Archived from the original on 18 March 2023. Retrieved 30 November 2020.
- ^ "Nicolas Jackson, la nueva perla amarilla que ya perfila Emery" [Nicolas Jackson, the new yellow pearl who Emery already shapes up] (in Spanish). Diario AS. 11 October 2021. Archived from the original on 24 May 2023. Retrieved 24 May 2023.
- ^ "Baena and Jackson officially become first-team players". Villarreal CF. 26 August 2022. Archived from the original on 26 August 2022. Retrieved 26 August 2022.
- ^ "Bournemouth's swoop for Southampton target Jackson fails after medical". Southern Daily Echo. 27 January 2023. Archived from the original on 24 May 2023. Retrieved 24 May 2023.
- ^ "Nicolas Jackson joins the Blues". Chelsea F.C. 30 June 2023. Archived from the original on 30 June 2023. Retrieved 1 August 2023.
- ^ "Chelsea 1–1 Liverpool: Mauricio Pochettino's side fight back to draw his first Premier League game in charge". Sky Sports. 13 August 2023. Archived from the original on 15 August 2023. Retrieved 14 August 2023.
- ^ "Chelsea 3–0 Luton Town: Raheem Sterling double helps Blues see off Hatters". BBC. 25 August 2023. Archived from the original on 27 January 2024. Retrieved 26 August 2023.
- ^ "Chelsea beat nine-man Tottenham in chaotic epic". BBC Sport. Archived from the original on 7 November 2023. Retrieved 6 November 2023.
- ^ "Chelsea 4–4 Manchester City: Cole Palmer hits late penalty to deny former club victory". BBC Sport. 12 November 2023. Archived from the original on 22 December 2023. Retrieved 4 January 2024.
- ^ "Chelsea 6–0 Everton: Cole Palmer scores four including 16-minute hat-trick". BBC Sport. 15 April 2024. Archived from the original on 16 April 2024. Retrieved 16 April 2024.
- ^ "Chelsea 5–0 West Ham: Nicolas Jackson nets brace as Blues cruise to big derby win". The Standard. 5 May 2024. Archived from the original on 29 June 2024. Retrieved 29 June 2024.
- ^ "Top African Goal Scorers In Premier League 2023/2024". African Folder. 25 May 2024.
- ^ Chelsea FC. "Nicolas Jackson signs contract extension!". Chelsea F.C. Archived from the original on 13 September 2024. Retrieved 15 September 2024.
- ^ "Chelsea 2–1 Newcastle: Cole Palmer scored his seventh goal of the season as Chelsea beat Newcastle to continue their impressive start". BBC Sport. BBC. 27 October 2024. Retrieved 27 January 2025.
- ^ "Jackson wins Guinness Goal of the Month award for October 2024". Premier League. 8 November 2024. Archived from the original on 12 November 2024. Retrieved 27 January 2025.
- ^ Rajan, Adwaidh (1 May 2025). "Djurgården 1–4 Chelsea". UEFA.
- ^ "How expensive will Chelsea's Premier League loss at Newcastle prove to be?". BBC Sport. 11 May 2025. Retrieved 12 May 2025.
- ^ "Real Betis 1–4 Chelsea: The Blues complete set with Conference League success". UEFA. 28 May 2025.
- ^ Kinsella, Nizaar (21 June 2025). "'Stupid, stupid, stupid' – Jackson opens door for Delap". BBC Sport.
- ^ "Chelsea striker Jackson joins Bayern Munich in £70.5m deal". BBC Sport. 1 September 2025. Retrieved 1 September 2025.
- ^ "Bayern march on with 5-1 win over Pafos". FC Bayern Munich. 30 September 2025.
- ^ "Matches amicaux – Les U 20 invités en Arabie saoudite" [Friendlies – U-20 invited to Saudi Arabia] (in French). Ligue Sénégalaise de Football Professionnel. 28 December 2018. Archived from the original on 3 March 2024. Retrieved 7 October 2020.
- ^ "Préparation de matches amicaux : L'équipe nationale juniors en stage à partir de lundi" [Preparation for friendly matches: The national junior team in training camp from Monday] (in French). Ligue Sénégalaise de Football Professionnel. 4 January 2019. Archived from the original on 1 March 2024. Retrieved 7 October 2020.
- ^ "Première sélection pour Nicolas Jackson du Casa-Sports" [First call-up of Nicolas Jackson from Casa Sports] (in French). SenePlus. 15 November 2018. Archived from the original on 26 May 2023. Retrieved 7 October 2020.
- ^ "Aliou Cisse dévoile les 26 Lions pour Qatar" [Aliou Cissé unveils 26 Lions for Qatar] (in French). Senegalese Football Federation. 11 November 2022. Archived from the original on 12 November 2022. Retrieved 11 November 2022.
- ^ "Jackson debuta con Senegal en el Mundial y cae ante Países Bajos" [Jackson debuts with Senegal in the World Cup and suffer defeat against the Netherlands] (in Spanish). Castellón Plaza. 21 November 2022. Archived from the original on 2 February 2023. Retrieved 24 May 2023.
- ^ "Afcon 2023: Senegal and Sadio Mane set for defence of title". BBC Sport Africa. 29 December 2023. Archived from the original on 14 January 2024. Retrieved 1 January 2024.
- ^ Mtuta, Lukhanyo (30 January 2024). "5 top stars who've flopped at AFCON 2023". Kick Off. Retrieved 26 October 2024.
- ^ "Jackson breaks duck as Senegal runs riot". beIN Sports. 11 October 2024. Retrieved 26 October 2024.
- ^ "Nicolas Jackson". Soccerbase. Archived from the original on 18 April 2024. Retrieved 25 August 2024.
- ^ "Nicolas Jackson". National Football Teams. Benjamin Strack-Zimmermann. Retrieved 17 June 2023.
- ^ "Internationals: Jackson and Mudryk on target in wins". Chelsea FC. Archived from the original on 2 November 2024. Retrieved 12 October 2024.
- ^ "Chelsea beat Real Betis 4–1 to win Conference League". BBC. 28 May 2025. Retrieved 28 May 2025.
- ^ Begley, Emlyn (13 July 2025). "Chelsea 3–0 PSG". BBC Sport. Retrieved 13 July 2025.
- ^ McNulty, Phil (25 February 2024). "Carabao Cup final: Chelsea 0–1 Liverpool (aet)". BBC Sport. Archived from the original on 6 March 2024. Retrieved 26 February 2024.
- ^ "Nicolas Jackson named LaLiga Santander Player of the Month for May". La Liga. 1 June 2023. Archived from the original on 6 June 2023. Retrieved 1 June 2023.
- ^ "Jackson wins Guinness Goal of the Month award". Premier League. 8 November 2024. Archived from the original on 12 November 2024. Retrieved 8 November 2024.
- ^ "Vote for your Premier League goal of the month". BBC Sport. 30 October 2024. Archived from the original on 3 December 2024. Retrieved 3 December 2024.
External links
[edit]- Profile at the Chelsea F.C. website
- Nicolas Jackson at Soccerway
- Nicolas Jackson – UEFA competition record (archive)
Nicolas Jackson
View on GrokipediaEarly life
Family background
Nicolas Jackson was born on 20 June 2001 in Banjul, the capital of The Gambia, though this birthplace is disputed, with Chelsea's official profile and some other sources claiming he was born in the village of Djibonker, Senegal.[2][3][4] His father is Gambian, while his mother is Senegalese, instilling in him a blend of cultural influences from both nations that shaped his early identity and facilitated his eligibility to represent Senegal internationally.[2][9] Jackson spent his formative years in The Gambia until age 16, during which the family faced considerable upheaval due to the political crisis sparked by the 2016 presidential election, where incumbent Yahya Jammeh's refusal to concede led to widespread instability and economic hardship that affected household security.[9][10]Relocation and youth introduction to football
In 2017, amid the political crisis in The Gambia following the 2016 presidential election—where incumbent Yahya Jammeh refused to concede defeat, prompting ECOWAS military intervention and his eventual exile—Nicolas Jackson's family relocated to Ziguinchor in Senegal's Casamance region.[11] This move, driven by the ensuing instability and uncertainty in Gambia, allowed the family to settle in a more stable environment closer to Jackson's Senegalese maternal roots.[9] Ziguinchor, approximately 150 kilometers from Banjul, became the 16-year-old Jackson's new home, where he could pursue opportunities in a region with stronger football infrastructure.[12] Upon arriving in Ziguinchor, Jackson joined the youth setup of local club ASC Tilene during the 2017–2018 season, marking his first foray into structured football training.[13] Previously accustomed to informal street games in Gambia without proper equipment, this transition introduced him to organized sessions, including coached drills and team practices—his inaugural experience wearing football boots.[13] ASC Tilene, a community-based side in the Casamance area, provided the foundational platform for Jackson to hone basic technical skills under supervision, shifting from unstructured play to regimented youth development.[14] During his time at ASC Tilene, Jackson primarily developed as a forward, focusing on positioning, finishing, and movement in local youth competitions.[15] He participated in regional matches against other amateur and youth teams in southern Senegal, where his pace and goal-scoring instinct began to stand out, earning him recognition among local coaches and players.[16] These performances drew scouting interest from nearby professional outfit Casa Sports, who identified his potential and recruited him ahead of the 2018–19 season, propelling him toward senior opportunities.[17]Club career
Early professional career
Jackson signed his first professional contract with Senegalese club Casa Sports in 2018 at the age of 17, marking the beginning of his senior career in the Ligue 1 Sénégalaise.[18] He made his senior debut for Casa Sports on 16 November 2018 in a 1–1 Ligue 1 draw against AS Pikine, where he delivered a standout performance and was awarded man of the match as the number 22.[19] During the 2018–2019 season, Jackson made limited appearances for the first team but demonstrated enough promise to establish himself in the squad and attract attention from European clubs.[13] His contributions helped build his reputation as a talented young forward in Senegal's top flight. In September 2019, following his breakthrough season, Jackson departed Casa Sports to pursue opportunities abroad, signing with Spanish La Liga club Villarreal.[20]Time at Villarreal
Jackson joined Villarreal's youth setup in September 2019 after impressing in trials, initially playing for the club's reserve team, Villarreal B, in Spain's third-tier Primera División RFEF.[3] Over the next three seasons from 2019 to 2022, he made 27 appearances for Villarreal B, scoring 7 goals and providing 8 assists, contributing significantly to the team's promotion to the Segunda División B in 2021–22.[21] In October 2020, Jackson was loaned to Segunda División side Mirandés for the 2020–21 season to gain senior professional experience in competitive Spanish football.[22] During his stint, he featured in 16 league matches, scoring 1 goal—his first professional strike on 28 November 2020 in a 1–1 draw against Castellón—while adapting to the physical and tactical demands of the second tier.[23] The loan helped sharpen his skills, though limited playing time underscored his ongoing development. Upon returning to Villarreal in summer 2021, Jackson was gradually integrated into the first-team setup under manager Unai Emery, marking his promotion from the reserves. He made his La Liga debut on 3 October 2021, coming on as a substitute for Arnaut Danjuma in a 2–0 home victory over Real Betis.[24] In the 2021–22 season, he appeared in 9 La Liga matches without scoring, often as a rotational forward, while continuing to feature for Villarreal B.Nantes
In July 2022, Jackson transferred to Ligue 1 club Nantes for a reported €8 million.[4] During the 2022–23 season, he scored 15 goals in 42 matches across all competitions, establishing himself as a key attacker and earning a call-up to the Senegal national team.[4] His pace, finishing, and ability to exploit spaces behind defenses became hallmarks, with notable contributions in crucial matches.Chelsea
On 1 July 2023, Chelsea signed forward Nicolas Jackson from Nantes for a transfer fee of approximately £32 million, with the 22-year-old Senegalese international agreeing to an eight-year contract until 2031.[25][26] During the 2023–24 season, Jackson made 35 appearances in the Premier League, scoring 14 goals and providing 5 assists, as he adapted to the demands of English football's high-pressure environment. His contributions helped Chelsea secure a sixth-place finish and qualification for European competition, with notable performances including a hat-trick in a 5–0 win over West Ham United. In the 2024–25 season, Jackson featured in 30 Premier League matches, netting 10 goals and recording 5 assists, while earning the Premier League Goal of the Month award for October 2024 after scoring the opener in a 2–1 victory against Newcastle United.[27] On 13 September 2024, he signed a two-year contract extension with Chelsea, committing his future to the club until 2033.[28] A highlight came in the 2025 UEFA Conference League final on 28 May 2025, where Jackson scored Chelsea's second goal in a 4–1 comeback win over Real Betis, assisted by Cole Palmer, securing the club's first title in the competition and completing a sweep of all major European trophies.[29][30] Across his time at Chelsea prior to his 2025 loan departure, Jackson amassed 65 Premier League appearances, scoring 24 goals and providing 10 assists. For context on his goal-scoring output, in their respective first two seasons at Chelsea, Jackson recorded 24 Premier League goals (14 in 2023–24 and 10 in 2024–25) and 30 in all competitions (17 in 2023–24 and 13 in 2024–25), while Diego Costa scored 32 Premier League goals (20 in 2014–15 and 12 in 2015–16) and 37 in all competitions (21 in 2014–15 and 16 in 2015–16).[3] In August 2025, amid increased competition for the striker position following Chelsea's summer signings, he joined Bayern Munich on a season-long loan to seek regular playing time and further development.[31][32]Loan to Bayern Munich
On 1 September 2025, Nicolas Jackson joined Bayern Munich on a season-long loan from Chelsea, with the deal including an option-to-buy clause that Bayern is reportedly unlikely to pursue.[33][34] The move, valued at an initial loan fee of around €16.5 million, positioned Jackson as a deputy to primary striker Harry Kane, providing depth in Bayern's forward line amid their Bundesliga and Champions League campaigns.[35] Jackson made his debut for Bayern on 14 September 2025, coming off the bench in a 5-0 Bundesliga victory over Hamburg.[36] By early November 2025, he had featured in 7 appearances across the Bundesliga and UEFA Champions League, recording 1 goal and 2 assists while adapting to the demands of German football and Vincent Kompany's high-pressing system.[23] His contributions highlighted his growing integration, though he primarily operated in a rotational role behind Kane. Key moments in Jackson's early tenure included scoring his first goal for Bayern against Pafos FC in the Champions League group stage on 30 September 2025, a clinical finish that helped secure a 5-1 win.[37] He also provided a crucial assist in Bayern's 4-0 Champions League triumph over Club Brugge on 22 October 2025, setting up a teammate during a dominant performance.[38] Earlier, on 17 September 2025, Jackson faced his parent club Chelsea in the Champions League group stage, starting in Bayern's 3-1 victory and demonstrating his familiarity with former teammates without directly contributing to the scoreline.[39] Bayern coach Vincent Kompany praised Jackson's "outstanding impact" and positional flexibility, noting his ability to contribute across the front line despite a measured goal tally.[40] Kompany emphasized Jackson's work rate and tactical intelligence as key to his adaptation, defending him amid scrutiny over limited starting opportunities.[41] Bayern has indicated no intention of activating the purchase option at this stage, signaling Jackson's likely return to Chelsea at the end of the 2025–2026 season.[42] Interest has emerged from Premier League clubs Everton and Aston Villa for a potential 2026 move, viewing him as a versatile attacking option.[43]International career
Youth international career
Jackson represented Senegal at the under-20 level, receiving his first call-up in November 2019. His involvement was limited to developmental matches, where he played as a forward, gaining initial international exposure following his relocation to Senegal for football development. He did not participate in major youth tournaments, with his experience serving primarily as a stepping stone toward a senior national team call-up.[44]Senior international career
Jackson made his senior international debut for Senegal on 21 November 2022, coming on as a substitute in the 2022 FIFA World Cup group stage match against the Netherlands, which ended in a 2–0 defeat.[45] He was included in Senegal's 26-man squad for the tournament as a wildcard selection, reflecting his rapid rise at Villarreal, and made one appearance in the group stage as the Lions of Teranga advanced to the knockout rounds for the first time.[2] In December 2023, Jackson was named to Senegal's squad for the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations, held in Ivory Coast. He featured as a substitute in all four of Senegal's matches, providing energy in attack during the group stage wins over Gambia and Guinea, a draw with Cameroon, and the round-of-16 penalty shootout loss to hosts Ivory Coast that ended their campaign. His contributions highlighted his role in maintaining Senegal's competitive edge in major tournaments. As of November 2025, Jackson has earned 24 caps for Senegal, scoring 3 goals.[46] Notable moments include his first international goal in a 4–0 Africa Cup of Nations qualifying win over Malawi in October 2024, and an assist in Senegal's 3–1 friendly victory against England on 10 June 2025, where he set up Ismaïla Sarr's equalizer at the City Ground.[47][48] He received a call-up in October 2025 for World Cup qualifiers, further solidifying his regular involvement.[45] Jackson was part of Senegal's squad for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations in Morocco, with no reported injuries impacting his eligibility or participation.[49] As a versatile forward, he has supported the transition in Senegal's attack alongside Sadio Mané, offering pace, pressing, and depth in wide and central roles during an era of sustained continental success.[2]Playing style
Key attributes
Nicolas Jackson possesses a physical profile well-suited to the striker role, standing at 1.87 meters tall and weighing 82 kg, which provides a balance of height for aerial challenges and a lean build for agility.[1] His explosive speed is a standout attribute, with recorded top sprint speeds of 35.21 km/h that enable him to exploit spaces behind defenses rapidly.[50] Jackson also demonstrates strength in aerial duels through effective headed attempts, leveraging his height to compete effectively in the air.[51] Technically, Jackson excels in clinical finishing and dribbling in tight spaces, complemented by sharp off-ball movement that disrupts defensive lines. His finishing prowess was highlighted by 14 goals scored across 35 appearances in the 2023–2024 Premier League season, converting opportunities with composure under pressure. Dribbling ranks among his strongest skills, allowing him to maintain possession and advance play in congested areas with a high success rate.[51] Mentally, Jackson's high work rate shines in pressing duties, where he leads Chelsea's forward line in regaining possession high up the pitch, aligning seamlessly with the high-pressing tactics implemented by manager Enzo Maresca.[52] His adaptability to evolving tactical systems underscores a resilient mindset, enabling quick integration into team structures.[53] Jackson's development trajectory reflects a maturation from raw pace-dominant play at Villarreal, where he focused on explosive runs, to more composed decision-making at the elite Premier League level with Chelsea, marked by refined finishing and enhanced spatial awareness.[54]Positional versatility
Nicolas Jackson primarily operates as a centre-forward, leveraging his height and physical presence to lead the line, but he has demonstrated notable versatility by frequently deploying on the right or left wing across his career.[55] This adaptability allows him to contribute in multiple attacking roles, such as stretching defenses wide or cutting inside to create scoring opportunities.[56] His tactical flexibility has been evident in various club setups. During the 2022–23 season under Quique Setién, Jackson often featured as a second striker, supporting the main forward and contributing to build-up play with his movement off the ball.[57] During his time at Chelsea between 2023 and 2025, he was occasionally deployed as a wide forward, particularly on the left flank, where his pace enabled quick transitions and overloads in attacking phases, in addition to his primary central role.[3] On loan at Bayern Munich for the 2025–2026 season, Jackson has served as a deputy striker to Harry Kane, filling in centrally while also providing options on the wings to maintain fluidity in Vincent Kompany's formations. As of November 2025, Jackson has continued to demonstrate his speed with an average top speed of 33.55 km/h in Bundesliga matches, adapting to Kompany's high-pressing system.[58][59] Internationally with Senegal, Jackson's wing play has been particularly prominent, where he has alternated between right winger and left winger roles to exploit spaces in counter-attacking scenarios during Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers and World Cup preparations.[7] Earlier in his career, on loan at Mirandés in the 2020–2021 Spanish Segunda División season, he focused on central hold-up play as a lone striker, using his body strength to retain possession and link midfield to attack, making 27 appearances and scoring 7 goals.[31] Bayern Munich manager Vincent Kompany has specifically praised Jackson's multi-positional impact during the 2025–2026 campaign, noting his ability to adapt across the front line and enhance team dynamics in both central and wide areas.[60] This versatility, supported by his physical speed, has made him a valuable rotational option in high-pressing systems.[61]Career statistics
Club statistics
Nicolas Jackson's club career statistics, as of November 8, 2025, reflect his progression from Spanish lower divisions to top European leagues, with a total of 196 appearances, 54 goals, and 28 assists across all competitions.[62] He has logged 14,809 minutes on the pitch, demonstrating his growing role as a key forward.[62] His disciplinary record includes 28 yellow cards and 3 red cards, indicating occasional challenges with referee decisions but overall discipline.[62]Career Overview by Club
The following table summarizes Jackson's appearances, goals, and assists by club:| Club | Seasons | Appearances | Goals | Assists |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Villarreal B | 2019–2022 | 27 | 7 | 8 |
| Mirandés (loan) | 2020–21 | 17 | 1 | 1 |
| Villarreal | 2021–2023 | 48 | 13 | 6 |
| Chelsea | 2023–2025 | 78 | 30 | 11 |
| Bayern Munich (loan) | 2025–2026 | 11 | 3 | 1 |
| Career Total | - | 196 | 54 | 27 |
Detailed Statistics by Season and Competition
Jackson's performances are broken down below by season, club, and competition, highlighting his contributions in domestic leagues, cups, and European tournaments. Notable highlights include his 3 goals in the 2024/25 UEFA Conference League for Chelsea, one of which came in the final against Real Betis on May 28, 2025, where he scored in the 70th minute to help secure a 4-1 victory.[62]2019/20: Villarreal B
| Competition | Apps | Goals | Assists | Minutes | YC | RC |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Segunda División B | 10 | 0 | 0 | 457 | 1 | 0 |
| Total | 10 | 0 | 0 | 457 | 1 | 0 |
2020/21: Mirandés (loan)
| Competition | Apps | Goals | Assists | Minutes | YC | RC |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Segunda División | 16 | 1 | 1 | 720 | 1 | 0 |
| Copa del Rey | 1 | 0 | 0 | 90 | 0 | 0 |
| Total | 17 | 1 | 1 | 810 | 1 | 0 |
2021/22: Villarreal / Villarreal B
| Competition | Apps | Goals | Assists | Minutes | YC | RC |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| La Liga | 9 | 0 | 1 | 158 | 0 | 0 |
| Copa del Rey | 1 | 0 | 0 | 88 | 0 | 0 |
| Segunda División B (Villarreal B) | 17 | 7 | 8 | 1,142 | 2 | 1 |
| UEFA Europa League Qualifiers | 2 | 0 | 0 | 75 | 0 | 0 |
| Total | 37 | 7 | 9 | 2,535 | 2 | 1 |
2022/23: Villarreal
| Competition | Apps | Goals | Assists | Minutes | YC | RC |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| La Liga | 26 | 12 | 4 | 1,602 | 4 | 1 |
| UEFA Conference League | 8 | 1 | 0 | 305 | 1 | 0 |
| Copa del Rey | 2 | 0 | 1 | 139 | 1 | 0 |
| UEFA Conference League Qualifiers | 2 | 0 | 0 | 75 | 0 | 0 |
| Total | 38 | 13 | 5 | 2,121 | 6 | 1 |
2023/24: Chelsea
| Competition | Apps | Goals | Assists | Minutes | YC | RC |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Premier League | 35 | 14 | 5 | 2,810 | 10 | 0 |
| FA Cup | 4 | 2 | 1 | 357 | 0 | 0 |
| EFL Cup | 5 | 1 | 0 | 367 | 0 | 0 |
| Total | 44 | 17 | 6 | 3,534 | 10 | 0 |
2024/25: Chelsea
| Competition | Apps | Goals | Assists | Minutes | YC | RC |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Premier League | 30 | 10 | 5 | 2,240 | 7 | 1 |
| UEFA Conference League | 3 | 3 | 0 | 170 | 0 | 0 |
| UEFA Conference League Qualifiers | 1 | 0 | 0 | 27 | 1 | 0 |
| Total | 34 | 13 | 5 | 2,437 | 8 | 1 |
2025/26: Bayern Munich (loan, up to November 8, 2025)
| Competition | Apps | Goals | Assists | Minutes | YC | RC |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Bundesliga | 7 | 1 | 0 | 303 | 0 | 0 |
| UEFA Champions League | 3 | 2 | 1 | 112 | 0 | 0 |
| DFB-Pokal | 1 | 0 | 0 | 3 | 0 | 0 |
| Total | 11 | 3 | 1 | 418 | 0 | 0 |
International statistics
Jackson represented Senegal at youth level, earning one cap with the U20 team in November 2018 during a friendly match, where he did not score.[8]| Youth Competition | Appearances | Goals |
|---|---|---|
| Senegal U20 | 1 | 0 |
| Competition | Appearances | Goals | Assists |
|---|---|---|---|
| FIFA World Cup 2022 | 3 | 0 | 0 |
| Africa Cup of Nations 2023 | 4 | 1 | 0 |
| World Cup Qualification (CAF) | 8 | 1 | 1 |
| Africa Cup of Nations Qualification | 5 | 0 | 0 |
| Friendlies | 4 | 1 | 1 |
| Total | 24 | 3 | 2 |
