Chelsea Football Club has made a bold move by extending the contract of Senegalese striker Nicolas Jackson for an additional nine years, tying him to the club until 2033. The announcement, made on Friday, has raised eyebrows across the football world, particularly given Jackson’s relatively modest track record in the Premier League.
Jackson, who joined Chelsea from Villarreal, has shown flashes of his potential, scoring 14 goals in the Premier League last season.
However, the decision to extend his contract by nearly a decade is an unusual one, especially for a player who is still in the process of establishing himself as a consistent top-tier performer.
In a statement on Chelsea’s official website, Jackson reflected on his journey as a player, revealing how his role on the pitch has evolved.
“When I was young, I was a number 10 or a false nine because I like to move and drop deep.
When I arrived in Europe, Unai Emery [Jackson’s coach at Villarreal] changed things and put me as a fixed number nine,” he explained. This shift in position has clearly influenced Jackson’s development and his current role at Chelsea.
Despite the intense competition for places in Chelsea’s attack, Jackson has made a strong start to the current season, with two goals in his first three Premier League appearances.
His performances have positioned him as a contender for a regular starting role, even as the club continues to bolster its attacking options.
Chelsea’s decision to secure Jackson on such a long-term deal reflects the club’s belief in his potential and their commitment to building a team for the future.
The move is reminiscent of the club’s strategy under manager Mauricio Pochettino, who has emphasized the importance of youth development and long-term planning since his arrival at Stamford Bridge.
While some may view the length of the contract as a risk, it is also a statement of intent from Chelsea, signaling their confidence in Jackson’s ability to develop into one of the Premier League’s top strikers.
The deal also aligns with the club’s broader approach to securing young talent on long-term contracts, a strategy that has seen them tie down several key players in recent years.
As Jackson looks ahead to the future, his immediate focus will be on maintaining his form and solidifying his place in Chelsea’s starting lineup.
With a host of talented forwards vying for minutes, the competition will be fierce, but Jackson appears ready to embrace the challenge.
For Chelsea fans, the extension offers a glimpse of the club’s long-term vision, with Jackson set to play a pivotal role in the team’s plans for years to come.
As the football world watches to see how this ambitious contract plays out, one thing is clear: Nicolas Jackson’s journey at Chelsea is only just beginning.
This is just the start. 💙
Chelsea is delighted to announce Nicolas Jackson has signed a two-year contract extension until 2033. ✍️ pic.twitter.com/stzAMtHk6d
— Chelsea FC (@ChelseaFC) September 13, 2024
