Chelsea striker Nicolas Jackson has opened up on the reasons behind his surprise Deadline Day switch to Bayern Munich and insists he has no regrets about how his time at Stamford Bridge ended.
The 23-year-old Senegal international joined Chelsea in 2023 but endured a mixed spell in west London, with inconsistent finishing and rash challenges preventing him from fully winning over the fans.
Despite those struggles, he lifted both the UEFA Conference League and the FIFA Club World Cup during his stay.
Speaking to Tuttosport, Jackson admitted leaving Chelsea was an emotional moment but stressed that the move to Bayern Munich represents an exciting new chapter.
“I was very happy to sign for one of the biggest clubs in the world, to discover another league and other great players,” he said. “At the same time, I was a little sad to leave Chelsea, my teammates, and the fans. I experienced so many strong emotions there. Now I’m 100% focused on my new project and I can’t wait to experience the incredible atmosphere at the Allianz Arena.”
Reports suggested Jackson was unsettled by Chelsea’s summer arrivals Liam Delap and João Pedro, but the striker dismissed talk of tension, insisting he simply wanted a fresh challenge.
“Football is full of cycles. Sometimes things don’t go as they should, and that’s part of the game. I respect Coach Maresca, I learned a lot from him. He has his own ideas and style. I just needed something different at this stage of my career. I have no regrets, just gratitude for my time at Chelsea.”
Jackson’s loan move, which includes a conditional obligation to buy, was nearly derailed when Delap picked up a hamstring injury in the final days of the window. However, the deal was renegotiated and pushed through at the last minute.
Despite the late drama, the forward insists he never doubted the transfer would go through:
“My advisors and I were very confident. I never doubted I would sign with Bayern. I’m in good health, my loved ones are in good health, and I’m lucky to be a professional footballer. Nothing else matters.”
Jackson could make his debut for Die Roten after the international break when Bayern face Hamburger SV. If not, his first appearance might come in the Champions League against none other than parent club Chelsea.
