“I’m where I’m wanted” – Nicolas Jackson after Bayern move

New Bayern Munich signing Nicolas Jackson says he is thrilled to be “where I’m wanted” after completing a season-long loan from Chelsea, amid a whirlwind transfer saga.

The 24-year-old Senegal striker, unveiled officially in Munich on Friday, revealed the “tough times and difficult moments” he faced as his move teetered on the edge days before the transfer window closed.

“In football, there can be a time when you want a change. I spoke to Max Eberl and the coach they really wanted me here. And as a player, you want to be where people want you to be,” Jackson said.

Jackson’s exit from Chelsea followed the summer arrivals of Joao Pedro and Liam Delap, which pushed him down the pecking order. He had initially arrived in Munich ahead of deadline day, only to be recalled by Chelsea due to an injury to Delap. Determined to secure the move, Jackson’s agent pushed Bayern to complete the deal.

The German giants finalized the loan after the window closed, reportedly agreeing to a €16.5 million fee, the highest in Bayern’s loan history with an obligation to buy for €65 million. Bayern legend Uli Hoeness later said the conditions to trigger the purchase clause were “too difficult to satisfy,” noting Jackson would likely never meet the 40-game requirement.

Jackson, however, remained focused on football. “It’s not my decision, not my focus. My job is just to play on the pitch, score goals, and help the team win,” he said, praising Hoeness as “a legend of the club.”

The former Villarreal forward is expected to make his Bayern debut on Saturday when the Bavarians host Hamburg.