Palmer Has Lost His Spark Since Jackson’s Exit – Mikel

Former Nigerian international John Mikel Obi has launched a pointed critique of Chelsea’s attack, claiming that star playmaker Cole Palmer looks “completely lost” in the absence of striker Nicolas Jackson.

Jackson, who joined Bayern Munich on a season-long loan, has quietly delivered a solid campaign in Germany—finding the net eight times and providing four assists, despite often being used as a rotational option rather than an automatic starter.

But according to Mikel, Jackson’s true value was never just about goals. Speaking on the Obi One Podcast, the former Chelsea midfielder argued that Jackson brought out the best in Palmer through their on-pitch understanding something Chelsea’s current forward line has failed to replicate.

“We said so many times he was a fantastic player, and I actually think right now we’re missing him,” Mikel said. “What he gave us, no striker has given us.

“Pressing high, the way he was pressing aggressively and well, his connection between him and Cole Palmer. Cole Palmer looks lost without Nicolas Jackson right now.”

Mikel’s comments add to growing concern among Chelsea fans about Palmer’s recent dip in form, suggesting that the young Englishman’s chemistry with Jackson was a crucial, underrated element of Chelsea’s attacking rhythm.

Without that partnership, Mikel believes Palmer has been left isolated and ineffective.