As the summer transfer window heated up, Nicolas Jackson made a bold decision to move to Bayern Munich on loan, seeking guidance from someone who had walked a similar path.
The Senegal striker turned to former Liverpool star Sadio Mane for advice before making the high-profile switch to Germany.
A Complex Transfer Saga
Jackson’s move to Bayern came after a dramatic transfer saga.
The loan deal cost the German club £14.2million, with an obligation to buy him permanently for £56.2million if he hits a set number of appearances.
Chelsea initially tried to block the move following Liam Delap’s injury, but Jackson and his agent refused to return to London, and the transfer eventually went through.
Seeking Guidance from a Senegal Legend
Before finalizing the deal, Jackson reached out to his national teammate Mane, who had played for Bayern during the 2022-23 season.
Speaking to BILD, Jackson said: “Sadio is not only a Senegal legend, but also someone I admire greatly.
He has opened so many doors for us with his achievements.
e exchanged a few messages when we discussed my transfer.”
Mane, now playing for Al-Nassr, offered simple but meaningful advice.
Jackson recalled: “He told me that Bayern is a big family with a great culture of winning.
His advice was simply: ‘Work hard, stay humble, and be yourself.’ That he says that means a lot to me.”
Determined to Join Bayern
Despite the twists and turns of his transfer saga, Jackson was firm in his decision to join Bayern.
“I never doubted that I would sign with Bayern, so I took the situation calmly,” he said.
Mane’s Successful Spell at Bayern
Mane, who starred at Liverpool from 2016 to 2022, enjoyed a memorable spell in Germany, winning the Bundesliga title and scoring 12 goals in 38 appearances for Bayern.
His experience clearly made him a valuable mentor for Jackson.
Jackson’s Career at Chelsea
Jackson struggled with consistency after joining Chelsea from Villarreal in 2023 but still managed to make an impact.
In 81 appearances for the Blues, he scored 30 goals and provided 12 assists.
During his time at Stamford Bridge, Jackson also helped the club lift the Conference League and the Club World Cup.