It is immediately apparent how Nicolas Jackson has transformed from a street footballer to the Chelsea attack’s captain in just six years after spending a little time with him.

Jackson speaks with tremendous conviction and a distinct sense of self-assurance.

He states matter-of-factly, “Playing in the Premier League has always been an ambition of mine since I was a young man. “People might not understand, but to me it seems normal.” I have always had faith in myself.

Jackson spent his formative years in The Gambia. His education in football began on the country’s streets in West Africa. Coaches weren’t present. None are made. There are none.

The 22-year-old says, “Ever since I was young, I wanted to play football.” However, my family was more concerned that I attend school, and you should always pay attention to your parents.

I was usually playing street football with buddies, you know, he adds with a smile. It gave me a great deal of assistance and independence. I would observe other players and pick up tips from the field. It was wonderful, and I shall always remember it.

At the age of 16, Jackson relocated to Ziguinchor, Senegal. He joined the neighborhood team ASC Tilene, his first club and introduction to organized football. He made a choice that led him toward Chelsea.

Given his talent, Jackson unavoidably attracted attention, and trophies were won with Tilene. The chance to join a professional club soon presented itself.

Jackson says, “My mentor, who is also my agent, found me there and took me to the first division in Senegal.” He drove me to Casa Sport, I said. Although it was a little challenging, I had a coach who believed in me—Badara Sarr.

I was either a number 10 or a false striker. You always want to be with the ball when you’re younger.

Jackson made a name for himself with the Casa first team throughout the 2018–19 campaign. He had numerous offers from European clubs before completing his transfer to La Liga team Villarreal in September 2019.

It underwent a drastic makeover both on and off the field. Jackson says, “I had never gone to Europe before. Despite the fact that I arrived rather late, the sun was still shining. That was unique.

“You know, it wasn’t always simple? I was by myself. No relatives. different dialects. I didn’t enjoy the different meals. But I paid attention. My desire came true. Therefore, everything was well.

Jackson began his training career with the Villarreal under-16 team. It was his first exposure to European football, so some getting used to was unavoidable.

He acknowledges that “it took some time.” I had never played that type of football or been in an academy before. I consequently participated for the Under-16s and the Under-19s. I gained a lot of knowledge.

Jackson joined Mirandes in Spain’s second division after spending a year at Villarreal. It was a crucial learning opportunity. There were injuries to overcome. There had to be some form. One had to earn minutes.

After 17 senior appearances, Jackson returned to Villarreal feeling ready for more.

Unai Emery was in charge of the first team when I returned from my trip. He gave me a good upbringing and taught me a lot. He altered both my perspective and my approach.

Jackson played 10 times for Villarreal’s first team in the 2021–2022 season. He continued to play for Villarreal B, and his team’s promotion to the second division was secured thanks to his seven goals and eight assists.

Jackson’s performance in tomorrow’s match against Bournemouth might have gone quite differently. He may have been sporting the home team’s red and black stripes instead of Chelsea blue, had fate not decreed differently.

After making a name for himself with the Villarreal first team in January, Jackson held negotiations to join the Cherries. A hamstring issue prevented the move from happening, though.

When it didn’t happen, Jackson claims that he wasn’t upset or irritated. I handled it well and moved on. Things do happen, and I am one of those people who thinks that everything has a purpose. So, I was in good shape and prepared for what came next.

Jackson claims, “I didn’t believe coming here would be difficult. “My English is good, and these people are incredible.” I’m content. It was more challenging to go from Africa to Spain, but I managed.

Therefore, I was ideal for me. Together with the coach and my teammates, it’s a fantastic team. This year, I’m hoping we can accomplish amazing things.

Jackson has started all four of our Premier League games so far, and in the win over Luton Town, he netted his first Chelsea goal. However, overall performance is what has people’s attention.

Jackson plays with an honesty and a willingness to take chances. He plays with a street football mentality. He explains, “I feel used to this kind of football, at ease.” You know, street football is harder in a way. There are none. no officials. Anything is possible.

Many Chelsea fans have remarked how Jackson’s beginning at Stamford Bridge matched that of the famous Didier Drogba, who was one of Jackson’s childhood heroes.

But our current No. 15 shuts down any parallels to our former striker, at least for the time being.

Nico says, “Drogba is a legend; I am nobody here.” I’ve only just begun, so please wait. Then people can discuss when I’m done with football.