Chelsea Manager Maresca Criticizes Jackson After Red Card Leaves Champions League Hopes At Risk

Chelsea manager Enzo Maresca expressed frustration over Nicolas Jackson's red card during their 2-0 loss to Newcastle, which significantly hindered their Champions League qualification hopes. Jackson was sent off for elbowing Sven Botman in the first half after a VAR review upgraded the original yellow card to red, leaving Chelsea a man down for the remainder of the match. Despite being down to ten men, Chelsea showed resilience in the second half, creating several clear chances but ultimately conceding a late second goal. Maresca emphasized the need for Jackson to learn from this costly mistake, especially at a critical stage of the season, and confirmed he would speak with the striker after the game. With Jackson suspended for the remainder of the season and other strikers injured, Chelsea must find alternative solutions to win their final two crucial matches against Manchester United and Nottingham Forest to secure a top-five finish. Maresca acknowledged the challenge ahead but remained proud of his team’s effort and spirit under difficult circumstances.