Xabi Alonso hasn’t officially started his Chelsea job yet, but he’s already doing homework. The incoming head coach is keeping close tabs on Nicolas Jackson’s performances at the 2026 FIFA World Cup, where the striker is representing Senegal.

The Jackson question

Nicolas Jackson returns to Chelsea this summer carrying a mixed bag from his nine-month loan spell at Bayern Munich. Eight goals in 23 appearances across the Bundesliga is decent, but it’s not the kind of haul that screams “undisputed starter.”

Jackson’s contract with Chelsea runs all the way through 2033, which gives the club an almost absurd amount of leverage when it comes to future decisions about his role.

What makes the World Cup evaluation particularly valuable is that it offers something a training ground session simply can’t: high-pressure competitive football against elite opposition. Jackson isn’t just knocking the ball around in a friendly. He’s performing on the biggest stage in the sport, where every touch gets dissected by millions.

Alonso, who agreed to a four-year contract with Chelsea in mid-May 2026, understands this better than most.

What Alonso is looking for

Chelsea’s management reportedly holds a high opinion of Jackson, which adds another layer to this evaluation. If the club already rates him, Alonso needs to either validate that assessment or push back with evidence. World Cup performances, good or bad, provide exactly that kind of evidence.

The plan, as it stands, is to give Jackson a proper pre-season under Alonso regardless of what happens in the tournament. Chelsea wants the striker to have a genuine opportunity to prove himself before any decisions about his future are made.

The bigger picture at Stamford Bridge

Jackson’s situation is a microcosm of the broader challenge. Chelsea have invested in a young striker, loaned him out to gain experience at one of Europe’s biggest clubs, and now need to determine whether he’s part of the long-term project under a new manager with a specific tactical vision.

The 2033 contract expiration date means Chelsea aren’t forced into a fire sale if Jackson doesn’t fit Alonso’s plans. They can loan him again, sell him at their preferred price point, or keep him as squad depth.