Chelsea suffered a 3-1 defeat at the hands of Flamengo in the Club World Cup.
Nicolas Jackson dominated the headlines from the match following a reckless red card during the defeat.
The straight red card came only four minutes after his introduction, following a dangerous challenge that saw his studs catch Flamengo’s Ayrton Lucas on the shin.
And the incident might just lead to Chelsea making a decision regarding the striker.
Nicolas Jackson after being shown a red card vs Flamengo
Photo by Darren Walsh/Chelsea FC via Getty Images
Chelsea no longer considers Nicolas Jackson untouchable amid exit links
Chelsea are now reportedly open to selling Jackson. That is according to the latest from Gianluca Di Marzio, who claims that he is no longer seen as “untouchable,” and the club is open to listening to offers.
Among the clubs interested in signing him are Juventus and Napoli. Juventus have positioned themselves as early frontrunners, having already held initial talks over a possible transfer.
Napoli are also eyeing him, though their focus appears to be on other options, including Darwin Nunez and Lorenzo Lucca.
Nicolas Jackson apologises after red card incident
Already serving a domestic suspension from a red card at Newcastle earlier in May, Jackson found himself in fresh trouble at the Club World Cup.
Just four minutes after coming off the bench against Flamengo, he was shown a straight red for a reckless challenge on Ayrton Lucas, a moment that shifted the momentum of the match.
Chelsea had gone ahead early through Pedro Neto, but quick goals from Bruno Henrique and Danilo turned the game around.
Jackson’s dismissal reduced them to ten men, and Wallace Yan later sealed Flamengo’s 3-1 victory. The Blues now face added pressure heading into their final group match against ES Tunis.
In the aftermath, Jackson issued a heartfelt apology on social media. He admitted his mistake, expressed frustration with himself, and apologised to the club, teammates, and fans.
While insisting the challenge wasn’t intentional, he accepted full responsibility. The Senegalese striker wrote on Instagram story: “I want to say sorry. To the club, the staff, my teammates, and all the fans watching, I let you down.
“Another red card and honestly, I’m so angry at myself. I work hard every day to help the team not to put us in this kind of situation.
“I still don’t fully understand how it happened. But one thing is clear: it wasn’t intentional. Just a football moment that went the wrong way. No excuses. I take full responsibility.
“I’ll reflect, I’ll grow, and I’ll come back stronger for the badge and for everyone who believes in me. Sorry. Sorry. Sorry.”