Chelsea manager Enzo Maresca has lifted the lid on what he wants from his number nine—and he believes he already has that in Nicolas Jackson.
“Jackson Is the One We Need – Maresca’s Clear Message on Chelsea’s Striker Plans”
As the Blues prepare for a defining summer in the transfer market, Maresca’s comments offer a glimpse into his vision for the team’s attacking future.
Despite persistent links to strikers like Liam Delap and Benjamin Sesko, Maresca insists his ideal striker is already wearing blue.
“My perfect number nine is exactly Nico Jackson,” the Chelsea head coach said.
“We already have a number nine. It’s not summer now. If we can have a copy of Nico, it’s OK.”
The Senegal international has had a mixed first season at Stamford Bridge, scoring nine Premier League goals so far.
While his raw talent and relentless work rate have impressed, a lack of depth in the striker position has exposed the squad’s imbalance.
Jackson’s absence—due to an injury sustained on deadline day against West Ham—was deeply felt. He returned just last week in the 2-0 win over Tottenham, immediately making an impact.
Chelsea’s coaching staff and players have repeatedly underlined Jackson’s importance. Levi Colwill recently described him as a “huge threat”, while club legend Jimmy Floyd Hasselbaink praised his movement and energy.
Yet, many agree that Jackson needs both competition and support—someone who can offer a different profile up front and help ease the burden.
With Chelsea reportedly open to selling up to eight players this summer, the focus will be on reinvesting smartly—particularly in key areas like centre-back, right-wing, and, of course, up front.
But if Maresca gets his way, any incoming striker won’t replace Jackson—they’ll complement him.
Jackson is expected to return to the starting XI against Ipswich on Sunday, in what could be an ideal opportunity for him to net his first goal of 2025 and reinforce why his manager believes he’s the blueprint for the perfect number nine.
