Senegalese striker Nicolas Jackson has spoken publicly for the first time following his season-long loan move from Chelsea to Bundesliga champions Bayern Munich.
Jackson, who had fallen down the pecking order under Chelsea manager Enzo Maresca, almost saw the deal collapse on transfer deadline day due to an injury to Liam Delap.
However, Bayern Munich ultimately reached an agreement with the Blues to secure the forward’s signature.
In an interview with TuttoSport, Jackson expressed mixed emotions about leaving Stamford Bridge but emphasized his excitement for the new challenge in Germany.
“[There were] very strong emotions, but not for the reasons you might think,” Jackson said. “I was simply very happy to sign for one of the biggest clubs in the world, to discover another league and other great players. At the same time, I was a little sad to leave Chelsea, my teammates, and the fans.”
Reflecting on his time at Chelsea, the 21-year-old added: “Football is full of cycles. I respect Maresca, I learned a lot from him; he has his own ideas and style. I have no regrets, just gratitude for my time at Chelsea.”
Jackson will now look to make an impact in the Bundesliga, aiming to rebuild momentum in his career with Bayern Munich.