Chelsea Coaches Tip 17-Year-Old Striker to Surpass Nicolas Jackson Within Two Years
Chelsea’s academy continues to cement its reputation as one of the most productive in English football — and now, one 17-year-old striker is generating huge excitement inside the club, with some staff boldly predicting he could outshine Nicolas Jackson within two years.
According to reports from within Stamford Bridge, youth coaches and scouts have been amazed by the teenager’s rapid development and consistent performances for the club’s youth sides this season. His rise has already sparked discussions among senior insiders about his potential pathway into the first team.
The young forward — whose identity remains undisclosed to shield him from early media attention — is described as having exceptional movement, composure in front of goal, and maturity beyond his age. One senior academy source reportedly told Sky Sports News:
“If he keeps improving at this rate, he’ll be better than Nicolas Jackson in two years. He’s that good.”
While Nicolas Jackson, who joined from Villarreal in 2023, has shown flashes of promise, his inconsistency and finishing have often come under scrutiny. Despite key goals in his debut campaign, questions remain about his reliability as Chelsea’s main striker.
By contrast, coaches believe the young prodigy possesses a natural striker’s instinct — a rare quality that can’t be taught. His ability to exploit spaces, anticipate defenders’ movements, and remain composed under pressure has drawn comparisons to seasoned professionals.
“Jackson has pace and power, no doubt,” another insider added. “But this boy has the killer instinct and decision-making you rarely see in players his age. If Chelsea develop him properly, they won’t need to spend big on a striker in a couple of years.”
The club’s technical staff are reportedly taking a careful, long-term approach to his development, aiming to protect the teenager from excessive attention while preparing him for higher levels. He’s expected to feature more prominently for the Under-21s this season and could soon receive opportunities in first-team training if his progress continues.
With manager Enzo Maresca known for giving chances to young players, the pathway to senior football looks clearer than ever for Chelsea’s latest rising star.
For now, fans will have to wait — but optimism around Cobham is high. As one academy coach summed it up:
“Give him two years. If he stays focused and keeps working, he’ll be the name on everyone’s lips — leading Chelsea’s attack.”
