Nicolas Jackson: Mikel trolls, Zlatan Ibile cheers – Nigerian star reacts after gifting Chelsea forward

Nigerian music star Omoniyi Temidayo Raphael, popularly known as Zlatan Ibile, has expressed his support for Chelsea forward Nicolas Jackson, wishing him more goals in the future, Soccernet.ng reports.

The former Villarreal CF striker and the Zanku Records CEO were recently seen exchanging pleasantries and gifts. Zlatan presented Jackson with his ZTTW clothing line merchandise, while Jackson reciprocated with a signed Chelsea jersey.

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Earlier in the season, Jackson faced criticism from former Super Eagles midfielder Mikel Obi over his goal-scoring struggles for Chelsea.

“You need a striker who knows how to find the back of the net, and that’s something we’re missing,” Obi remarked. “I know I often criticise him [Nicolas Jackson], and it may come across as disrespect, but that’s not my intention.”

A PASSIONATE @Mikel_John_Obi rant on the Chelsea slide towards “being comfortable” with mediocrity.

A MUST WATCH.#beINPL #CFC pic.twitter.com/4RMKzJb0hu

— beIN SPORTS (@beINSPORTS_EN) August 18, 2024

Jackson responded to Obi’s comments after an impressive performance in Chelsea’s clash against Wolves, where he opened the scoring and assisted Cole Palmer in the 45th minute.

Taking to social media, Jackson fired back at Obi, saying, “Mikel Obi, shut your mouth, don’t talk shit. We are killing ourselves in Africa.”

On a more positive note, Zlatan took to social media to wish Jackson success, writing, “More goals [in] 2025.” The Senegalese forward responded warmly, saying, “Amen bro, bless you.”

Jackson was part of Chelsea's starting XI in their recent 1-1 draw against Crystal Palace but couldn’t find the back of the net.

Despite this, he remains hopeful of surpassing his nine Premier League goals this season as the campaign progresses.