Al Hilal defender Kalidou Koulibaly has expressed his strong belief that Chelsea striker Nicolas Jackson possesses the talent necessary to secure the prestigious Ballon d’Or award in the future. Koulibaly, who shares a national connection with Jackson as a fellow Senegalese, highlighted his optimism about Jackson’s potential to not only be recognized as one of the best players in Africa but also to make his mark on the global stage.

Jackson has made a remarkable impression at Chelsea since the beginning of the 2024/25 season, showcasing his skills and effectiveness on the field. In just 10 matches across all competitions, he has already scored six goals and provided three assists, signaling a bright future ahead for the young attacker.

Koulibaly, in an interview with talkSPORT, emphasized his support for Jackson, stating, “He has the talent to do it (win the Ballon d’Or), and I hope he will be one of the best players in Africa, and why not in the world?” He further elaborated on his role in mentoring the rising star, noting, “I try to give him advice, but he has all the talent in his feet to do it, and I hope that he will.”

Koulibaly’s endorsement serves as a testament to Jackson’s promising career, as he continues to impress with his performances at Chelsea. With his exceptional abilities and determination, Jackson appears to be on a trajectory that could one day lead him to the pinnacle of individual football accolades, such as the Ballon d’Or.