Chelsea’s transfer business has once again sparked debate, with former Manchester United star Paul Scholes raising concerns over the club’s decision to let Nicolas Jackson join Bayern Munich. The Senegalese forward’s departure, part of a summer clear-out at Stamford Bridge, has left some wondering whether the Blues gave up on a player who brought more than just goals to their attack.
Scholes Criticizes Jackson’s Exit Despite Finishing Concerns
Speaking on The Good, The Bad & The Football podcast, Paul Scholes admitted he never viewed Nicolas Jackson as a clinical finisher but emphasized the forward’s value in progressing play. “He may not have been the most reliable in front of goal,” Scholes explained, “but his pace and movement were vital in pushing the team up the pitch and creating space for others.”
Scholes stressed that Jackson’s speed was particularly useful for players like Cole Palmer, who operate behind the striker and rely on forward runners to stretch defenses. Without that dynamic outlet, Scholes argued, creative midfielders may struggle to impact games as effectively.
Merson Echoes Concerns: ‘Bad Sale’ by Chelsea
Arsenal legend Paul Merson supported Scholes’ sentiment, describing Jackson’s departure as a “bad sale” for Chelsea. Merson highlighted the chemistry between Jackson and Cole Palmer as a key reason the pair thrived in last season’s setup.
“As a midfielder, you dream of having a pacey forward to play off,” Merson said. “Jackson would always make that run, and it gave Palmer more time and space to operate. Now, with Joao Pedro playing in a deeper role, the likes of Palmer and Enzo Fernandez are forced to come back for the ball, which limits their impact in the final third.”
Merson also acknowledged Jackson’s flaws in front of goal but believed his overall contribution outweighed those concerns. “He’s not the most ruthless finisher, but he opens the game up. That’s something Chelsea are missing now.”
Chelsea’s Win Over Liverpool Brings Hope Amidst Debate
While the discussion over Jackson’s exit continues, Chelsea earned a confidence-boosting 2-1 victory over Liverpool at the weekend. Moises Caicedo played a starring role, scoring a stunning goal to open the scoring.
Reflecting on the result, Caicedo told the club’s official website: “It was a great day for the club. The fans were amazing and gave us a real boost. This is the kind of result that can build momentum.”
He added that consistency will be key for Chelsea going forward, especially in a league as demanding as the Premier League. “When you beat top teams, it lifts the whole squad. We showed character, and now we have to keep improving, step by step.”
Chelsea’s Transfer Strategy Under the Microscope
With ten new arrivals and 23 departures this summer, Chelsea’s squad has undergone another significant overhaul. The decision to let Jackson leave on loan to Bayern Munich—reportedly with an obligation to buy that could reach £70 million—appears to be part of a broader financial balancing act after heavy investment in other players.
Names like Joao Pedro, Jamie Gittens, and Alejandro Garnacho have come in to reshape the Blues’ attack. But as Scholes and Merson point out, letting go of a player who offered pace and space-creating ability may have disrupted the team’s rhythm more than expected.
