Enzo Maresca Reveals What Nicolas Jackson Must Improve to Become Chelsea's Top Striker
Enzo Maresca praises Jackson's progress but highlights key areas for improvement to reach the next level
Nicolas Jackson has been turning heads with his performances for Chelsea this season, and head coach Enzo Maresca is clearly a fan of the striker. While Jackson’s goal-scoring record and work ethic have impressed Maresca, the Italian coach believes there are still areas where the Senegalese forward can get even better.
Last season, Jackson made a name for himself, scoring 17 goals and creating several assists under Mauricio Pochettino. Now, with Maresca at the helm, Jackson continues to thrive, showing consistency by scoring regularly and troubling defenders with his relentless pressing and movement.
In just 13 Premier League games this season, Jackson has bagged seven goals and provided three assists. This puts him in joint fifth place on the league’s scoring charts, alongside players like Cole Palmer and Yoane Wissa.
Maresca has highlighted Jackson’s willingness to listen and adapt as one of his standout traits. The coach shared his thoughts:
“He’s been very open-minded since we started working together. Sometimes we ask different things from him, and he’s always eager to learn. His attitude, especially off the ball, is excellent. The way he presses and stays aggressive really helps the team.”
Maresca emphasized that Jackson’s contributions go beyond just goals and assists. His defensive work and pressing are crucial parts of Chelsea’s strategy.
Despite Jackson’s strong performances, Maresca pointed out a couple of areas where the forward can step up his game.
“He’s already good enough for us, but like all players, there are things he can improve,” Maresca explained. “He’s missed some one-on-one chances this season—that happens—but he can get better at finishing those. Also, we want him to be braver on the ball and more involved when linking up with the team.”
Maresca’s focus on continuous improvement is not just for Jackson but for the entire squad. Jackson’s hunger to learn and grow fits perfectly with this philosophy, and Chelsea fans have plenty of reasons to be excited about his future.
With his current form and the guidance from a coach like Maresca, Jackson has the potential to become one of the Premier League’s top strikers. As he continues to develop, his all-around game could reach new heights, making him an even bigger threat to opposition defenses.
