New Chelsea head coach Enzo Maresca has made it abundantly clear who he sees as the ideal No.9 for his team – and it’s none other than Nicolas Jackson.

Speaking at a press conference ahead of Chelsea’s latest fixture, Maresca was asked about the profile of striker he wants leading the line next season. Without hesitation, the Italian declared: “My perfect No. 9 is exactly Nico Jackson. We already have a No.9. It’s not summer now.”

This firm endorsement comes as Jackson returns from injury, ready to rejoin the Chelsea frontline. Maresca’s admiration for the Senegalese striker didn’t stop there. He added: “If we can have a copy of Nico, it’s OK. I have said many times, and you can see as well, with Nico we are a better team.”

It’s a bold statement of intent – one that suggests Chelsea might not be in the market for a new striker this summer after all, despite links to several top forwards in recent months. For Maresca, Jackson is not just part of the plan – he is the plan.

The Chelsea boss also highlighted Jackson’s goal-scoring ability, especially his knack for finding the net without the aid of penalties. “Nico is the one we need. Last season, he scored goals without penalties. This season he scored goals until he was injured. Now, hopefully he can score more goals without penalties.”

Jackson’s form has often divided opinion among Chelsea fans, with some praising his movement and work rate, while others question his composure in front of goal. But Maresca’s comments make one thing clear: Jackson has the full backing of his manager.

“We are happy with Nico,” Maresca concluded. “And about next season, it’s not the moment [to talk about transfers].”

With such confidence in Jackson, it’s clear Maresca is building his attack around the 23-year-old. Now, it’s up to Jackson to repay that faith with goals as Chelsea aim to return to the top of English football under their new boss.