Bayern chief confirms Jackson loan will not be made permanent
Bayern Munich will not be signing Nicolas Jackson on a permanent deal following his loan spell from Chelsea, according to the club's director of sport, Max Eberl. Speaking in an interview with German broadcaster ZDF, Eberl confirmed that the Bavarian club "will not trigger the option for Nicolas Jackson," effectively ending the striker's time at the Allianz Arena. The 22-year-old Senegal international joined Bayern on a season-long loan last summer but has struggled to secure a regular starting role, scoring just three goals in 18 Bundesliga appearances.
Eberl's comments came during a wide-ranging discussion that also covered the recent appointment of Vincent Kompany as head coach and the futures of key players. On the managerial search, Eberl revealed that Kompany was "always on the list" of candidates, despite initial hesitation to approach the then-Burnley boss. He detailed a process that involved speaking with other candidates like Julian Nagelsmann, Ralf Rangnick, and Oliver Glasner, and even former coach Hansi Flick. Eberl credited a conversation with Pep Guardiola, facilitated by Bayern legend Karl-Heinz Rummenigge, as the "door opener" for the Kompany deal.
The decision on Jackson underscores a broader strategic assessment of Bayern's attacking options. The club is expected to be active in the striker market this summer as they look to provide long-term competition for Harry Kane. Jackson's departure opens up a squad place and frees up funds for a potential new signing. His return to Chelsea places him back into a competitive environment at Stamford Bridge, where his future will be evaluated by the Blues' new managerial hierarchy.
Eberl also provided clear updates on two other high-profile squad members. He emphatically ruled out selling winger Michael Olise, who joined from Crystal Palace last year, stating, "For us, there is not a second of thinking about it. He is developing excellently." Regarding veteran goalkeeper Manuel Neuer, whose contract expires this summer, Eberl struck a conciliatory tone, calling him a "legend" and indicating the club is open to a one-year extension if the 38-year-old feels ready to continue. These statements suggest a summer of targeted reinforcement rather than a major squad overhaul for Bayern.
Reflecting on his own challenging start in the role after joining from RB Leipzig, Eberl admitted he felt "under the microscope" and would have appreciated more protection from the intense media scrutiny. He acknowledged the unique pressure of working for a club of Bayern's stature, noting, "You cannot prepare yourself for Bayern. You have to dive straight in." The club now turns its focus to the transfer window, with Kompany expected to have significant input into recruitment plans as Bayern aims to reclaim the Bundesliga title from Bayer Leverkusen.
