Chelsea manager Enzo Maresca has publicly challenged striker Nicolas Jackson to deliver a performance of redemption in Wednesday’s UEFA Conference League final against Real Betis, describing the fixture as a pivotal moment in the club’s season.
With silverware on the line, Maresca is leaning on his squad to rise to the occasion—but he has made it clear that the spotlight is firmly on Senegal international Jackson, whose recent red card against Newcastle has not been forgotten by the Italian coach.
“I think Nico owes his teammates a debt,” Maresca said in his pre-match press conference, his tone underlining both expectation and conviction. “The match against Newcastle was the most important for us. He left his teammates with 10 players for an hour. So, he definitely owes them a debt.”
The dismissal, which came at a critical juncture in Chelsea’s domestic campaign, remains a point of frustration for Maresca. However, the manager acknowledged that the 22-year-old forward has taken responsibility for his actions.
“He’s definitely a good guy,” Maresca continued. “He admitted his mistake. He apologized to his teammates. That’s very important. And I’m sure he’ll play a very good game for us.”
Chelsea’s road to the Conference League final has been marked by inconsistency and a series of highs and lows under Maresca’s first season in charge.
The Italian, who arrived from Leicester City last summer, has faced pressure to bring immediate success to Stamford Bridge and now finds himself within touching distance of a European trophy—one that could serve as a significant milestone in his managerial career.
For Chelsea, the Conference League is not just about lifting silverware. It is a chance to salvage a season that has otherwise failed to meet expectations.
The London club, which already boasts Champions League and Europa League titles, is seeking to add a third European honour to its cabinet—something the manager views as essential for both pride and momentum.
Real Betis, meanwhile, enters the final with ambitions of their own, eager to secure continental recognition and add a major title to their history. The Spanish side has impressed with its tactical discipline and attacking creativity throughout the tournament, setting the stage for a competitive final.
Maresca, however, insists the focus must remain internal, particularly on players like Jackson who carry the potential to change the course of the game.
The young striker has shown flashes of brilliance throughout the campaign, combining speed, physicality, and finishing instinct. Yet moments of indiscipline, like his sending off against Newcastle, have sometimes overshadowed his contributions.
With the Conference League final now the centrepiece of Chelsea’s season, the pressure is on Jackson to channel his talent and restore faith—both from his manager and his teammates.
Maresca’s message was clear: redemption lies not in words, but in action on the pitch. Wednesday’s final offers Jackson the opportunity to repay the trust and help Chelsea close the season with a European triumph.
