Bayern’s super-sub faces Chelsea: Why Jackson could haunt his former club | OneFootball

When FC Bayern hosts FC Chelsea at the Allianz Arena on Wednesday evening, the focus is not only on the start of the new league phase of the Champions League. One player in particular is in the spotlight: Nicolas Jackson. The Senegalese player transferred on loan from the Blues to Munich on Deadline Day – and could now become a key player against his parent club.

During the 5-0 win against Hamburger SV on Saturday, Jackson made his debut for the German record champions. He was substituted at the start of the second half. He still needs some time to fully integrate into Vincent Kompany's system. However, he could already be valuable against Chelsea – not least because he brings special motivation.

Jackson, who transferred to London in 2023 for nearly 40 million euros, has not had an easy time at FC Chelsea. Despite having a contract until 2033, he recently faced competition from Liam Delap and Joao Pedro. Many critics quickly labeled him as too inefficient. Now he wants to prove that this assessment was wrong – and show Chelsea with his performance that he was underestimated there.

Why Jackson is important to Kompany

Photo: IMAGO

Jackson is not a classic penalty box striker but a versatile offensive force. He likes to move to the wings, integrates into combination play, creates gaps for his teammates, and brings dynamism to the game with his deep runs. In short: He makes the offense more unpredictable.

The collaboration with Harry Kane could be particularly promising. While the Englishman often drops into midfield to orchestrate the game, Jackson can use his speed to make deep runs or open up spaces. Both profiles complement each other – and could pose significant problems for Chelsea's defense.

Additionally, Jackson's pressing ability is noteworthy. Few offensive players understand how to press so intensely and intelligently at the same time. For Kompany, whose system relies heavily on collective pressing, this is a crucial factor. Chelsea has shown in recent weeks that they are vulnerable when pressed under high pressure – as seen in the recent 2-2 draw against Brentford.

Potential Game-Changer

Whether Jackson will start on Wednesday or come on as a substitute is uncertain. What is clear, however, is that the 24-year-old brings exactly the qualities that could help Bayern against his former club. Speed, pressing strength, and the desire to prove himself – Jackson could become an uncomfortable factor for Chelsea.

For Munich, it would be the perfect start to the Champions League – and for Jackson, the ideal stage to show his critics that he is more than just a loan deal.

This article was translated into English by Artificial Intelligence. You can read the original version in 🇩🇪 here.