According to a post shared on ESPN UK’s official Facebook account on Saturday, October 24, 2026, Nicolas Jackson’s celebration after scoring against Manchester City attracted attention due to his previous working relationship with the club’s manager, Enzo Maresca.

The post included pictures of Jackson celebrating his goal alongside the caption: “Nicolas Jackson’s celebration after scoring against his former manager… 👀👎” The message generated interest among football fans, particularly because of the striker’s reported history with Maresca during their time at Chelsea.

Jackson put Aston Villa ahead against Manchester City in their Premier League encounter, scoring in the sixth minute. According to the supplied match update, Villa went into half-time with a 1-0 lead, with the Nigerian-born striker’s early goal separating the two sides.

His celebration became an additional talking point because of the circumstances surrounding his departure from Chelsea. During the 2025/26 season, Jackson was reportedly no longer considered part of Maresca’s plans, leading to a change in his career.

The striker subsequently spent time on loan at Bayern Munich before joining Aston Villa, where he now plays under manager Unai Emery. His return to the Premier League has provided him with an opportunity to establish himself in a new team while facing clubs associated with figures from his previous career.

Consequently, Jackson’s goal against Manchester City attracted attention beyond its impact on the scoreline. Some football observers interpreted his celebration as a possible message to Maresca, although ESPN UK’s caption did not confirm that the gesture was specifically aimed at the manager.

The incident also highlighted the changes in Jackson’s career since his departure from Chelsea. His move to Aston Villa has placed him in a different tactical system under Emery, giving him an opportunity to demonstrate his abilities in a new environment.

Although ESPN UK’s social media post drew attention to the connection between Jackson and Maresca, the true meaning of the celebration remains unclear. There is no confirmed statement from the player establishing his intention, meaning suggestions that he was sending a message to his former manager remain a matter of interpretation.