Chelsea legend Claude Makelele is to the help of striker Nicolas Jackson and protects him against increasing criticism of his recent form.
The Senegalese star, who made the switch from Villarreal to the blues, has now packed two seasons in Stamford Bridge and lit the field with 30 goals and 12 assists in 80 performances in all competitions.
A striking moment in his career came up with a decisive goal in the UEFA Conference League final, with which he underlines his ability to perform in the largest phases. Nevertheless, recent disciplinary setbacks – two red cards in four games – have drawn a barrage of criticism.
His red cards against Newcastle United and Flamengo in the current FIFA Club World Cup have been worried about his discipline, so that fans and experts question his temperament. Some now make doubts about whether he will remain a long -term fit for the London Club.
However, the former French international, who has endured intense pressure during his playing days at Stamford Bridge, emphasizes the selfless style of Jackson.
“Of course he is doing very well, but everyone criticizes him. He is a striker that makes sacrifices for his team. I know him, I have been there,” Makelele told FlashScore.
“I know he is a good boy you understand. Of course he needs some help from another striker because he can't play all the games. He wants to play for Chelsea and for me he is a good player.”
The quality of Caicedo in midfield
Makelelele, generally considered one of the largest defensive midfielders of his generation, played a crucial role during the golden age of Chelsea under Jose Mourinho.
After he joined Real Madrid in 2003, he became the Lynchpin of a dominant side, making the club back-to-back Premier League titles (2004-2005, 2005-06), a FA cup, two competition heads and a community shield during his five-year-old spell.
Given his legendary status and permanent influence on the modern midfielder role, Brokerele of course was asked about Moises Caicedo, and where he belongs to the elite midfielders of the world.
Makelele said about the Ecuadorian who went to Chelsea at Brighton and Hove Albion: “It is now a different generation of midfielders, but I really like this young player because of how he works in his role.
“He always smiles and consistently delivers a strong performance for Chelsea. If he continues with this level of dedication and gets the right leadership within the team, I believe he can become one of the best midfielders.
“Because we get to know him better, it is clear that he is one of the best in the team, able to form his own role – because that is what a real midfielder does.”
Since he arrived at Stamford Bridge, Caicedo has quickly established himself as a key figure in the team. Inspired by Paul Pogba and N'Golo Kante, he has embraced the qualities of both players and refined on the field.
Are Chelsea Premier League profitors?
Makelele also shared a measured outlook on the Premier League title of Chelsea this season, and emphasized the importance of patience and focus because the team wants to recover from a challenging campaign.
Last season, the men of Enzo Maresca passed a turbulent campaign characterized by attacks of inconsistency and a series of injuries setbacks that disturbed their cohesion.
Despite these challenges and struggles to establish a consistent rhythm on the field, they showed resilience and eventually ensured a hard -fought fourth place in the Premier League.
When asked whether their performance at the World Cup club meant a real challenge for Liverpool, Manchester City and Arsenal for the title of 2025-26, the Frenchman replied: “I think it's early, you know.
“At the moment I think this team should let them end this competition (Club World Cup) and after they will be concentrated for the Premier League.
“The Premier League is very difficult. It is the most difficult competition in the world.”
Chelsea is taking on Brazilian side luminense in the FIFA Club World Cup semi-final on Tuesday at Metlife Stadium, with the winner in the final or really Madrid in Paris Saint-Germain or Real Madrid.