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Nicolas Jackson has issued an apology for his actions after Chelsea’s 1-3 defeat at the hands of Flamengo in the FIFA Club World Cup 2025 match, held at Lincoln Financial Field on June 20. Following the final whistle from the referee, the Gambia striker received a red card for throwing a negligent studs-up challenge against Ayrton Lucas just a few moments following his introduction as a substitute in the match. Jackson, on his 24th birthday, superseded Liam Delap, who completed a move to Stamford Bridge to clash with the Senegalese for the Pensioners’ number nine spot earlier in June.
Following the game, Jackson issued an apology to his team for the mistake through social media. Taking to his Instagram handle, he posted a story which read, “I want to say sorry. To the club, the staff, my teammates, and all the fans watching, I let you down. Another red card and honestly, I'm so angry at myself. I work hard every day to help the team not to put us in this kind of situation. I still don't fully understand how it happened. But one thing is clear: it wasn't intentional. Just a football moment that went the wrong way. No excuses. I take full responsibility. I'll reflect, I'll grow, and I'll come back stronger for the badge and for everyone who believes in me. Sorry. Sorry. Sorry.”
Jackson landed in trouble earlier as well
Last month, Nicolas was sent off for the similar deed against Newcastle. Following Nicolas’ red card, Chelsea manager Enzo Maresca expressed his disappointment as he feels it’s not good for Jackson, who will be out of action for a few games. "It happened against Newcastle and it happened today. Probably today I am not 100 percent sure it's a red card compared to the Newcastle one. So it's a little bit of a bad moment for Nico in this kind of things. Unfortunately now he will be out for a while, the time that we are here,” said Maresca.
Following their loss to Flamengo, Blues are now in the second spot on the Group D points table with two points earned through a victory against LAFC. Flamengo are at the top of the tally with two consecutive triumphs. Chelsea will next contest against ES Tunis at lincoln Financial Field on June 25.
