Chelsea striker Nicolas Jackson has named Senegalese star Sadio Mané as the greatest African footballer since his birth, placing him ahead of Ivorian legends Didier Drogba and Yaya Touré.
Speaking in a video interview for Sky Sports Premier League’s YouTube channel, Jackson shared his admiration for Mané and explained why the Bayern Munich forward is his favorite.
Asked to rank the three African icons—Mané, Drogba, and Touré—Jackson responded without hesitation.
Number one, Sadio Mané, of course.
Drogba second and Yaya Touré third,” he said. When pressed about what sets Mané apart, the Chelsea forward highlighted the qualities that have made the Senegalese winger a global star.
For me, he’s the best African footballer since I was born. What makes him so special? His hard work.
He has everything. He is electric, a good teammate. He is different,” Jackson explained.
Jackson also spoke highly of Drogba, a former Chelsea legend, and shared his aspirations to follow in the Ivorian striker’s footsteps.
Yaya Touré is great. Drogba is incredible.
I hope to become a Chelsea legend like Didier.
By the grace of God. If you are like him, then you are a big, big legend of football,” he said, adding that he dreams of meeting Drogba someday.
No, I have not spoken to him yet.
I hope that one day, when we win the Premier League or the Champions League, that will be the case.”
Mané’s status as an African football icon is widely recognized, with the 31-year-old having achieved remarkable success, including winning the Champions League with Liverpool and the Africa Cup of Nations with Senegal.
Jackson’s choice underscores the impact of Mané’s relentless work ethic and electrifying playing style on the younger generation of footballers.
While Jackson and Chelsea are unlikely to replicate Drogba’s Champions League triumph this season, the club’s second-place position in the Premier League leaves room for optimism.
Jackson himself hopes to cement his legacy at Stamford Bridge, much like the great African players he admires.
