Ian Wright has criticized Chelsea’s decision to sell Nicolas Jackson, questioning why the Blues sanctioned the striker’s departure after his impressive beginning at Aston Villa.

Jackson’s Aston Villa Form Leaves Chelsea Facing Fresh Questions

Jackson has flourished since completing a £65m summer move to Villa Park, netting seven goals in just 11 appearances.

The Senegal international scored in three consecutive matches earlier this season and struck twice in Villa’s statement victory over Premier League leaders Manchester City last weekend.

Speaking on The Overlap, Arsenal legend Wright and former Manchester United defender Gary Neville discussed the 25-year-old’s development.

Neville suggested Jackson might be the Premier League’s most improved player.

“I always thought he would be a good signing for someone because he’s a handful,” Neville explained.

“I would hate to play against him. When you watched him at Chelsea, yes he missed chances but everything else about his game the way he makes runs, plays on the shoulder, his touch – you knew that if he could just start nicking some goals, he would be fine.”

Chelsea originally signed Jackson from Villarreal in 2023, and he impressed during his debut campaign with 17 goals across all competitions.

However, his form declined during the 2024-25 season, leading to a loan move to Bayern Munich.

The German giants paid £14m for the temporary switch and agreed to a further £56m permanent deal if Jackson met appearance-based conditions.

But playing backup to Harry Kane prevented that clause from activating, and he returned to west London.

The presence of Joao Pedro complicated Jackson’s future at Stamford Bridge, prompting Chelsea to authorize his permanent Villa move, where he reunited with former Villarreal manager Unai Emery.

Emery has praised Jackson’s growth since arriving. “Mature, experience, confidence, and he is very demanding himself,” the Villa boss stated.

“Now, he’s getting his shots better, as well he’s working fantastic tactically. He has his quality and his power. His speed is fantastic.”

Meanwhile, Chelsea’s Pedro started strongly with five goals in six games but has missed the last two matches through injury.