Chelsea forward Nicolas Jackson has issued a public apology following his red card during the Blues’ 3–1 defeat to Flamengo in the Club World Cup on Friday.

The Senegalese striker was dismissed in the 68th minute, just four minutes after coming on as a substitute for Liam Delap, for a reckless studs-up challenge on Flamengo defender Ayrton Lucas. The incident occurred with Chelsea trailing 2–1, and further compounded their woes as Flamengo went on to seal victory.

Taking to Instagram after the match, Jackson expressed remorse for his actions:

“I want to say sorry. To the club, the staff, my team-mates, and all the fans watching — I let you down.
Another red card... and honestly, I'm so angry at myself. I work hard every day to help the team, not to put us in this situation.”

The sending-off means Jackson will be suspended for Chelsea’s crucial upcoming fixture against Esperance on Tuesday, with a place in the Round of 16 at stake.

The 23-year-old had also been sent off last month during Chelsea’s 2–0 Premier League defeat to Newcastle United — a disciplinary pattern that has begun to draw concern.

Reacting after the Flamengo match, Chelsea manager Enzo Maresca commented:

“It happened against Newcastle, and now again today.
Probably today I’m not 100 per cent sure it’s a red card compared to the Newcastle one — but it’s a bit of a difficult spell for Nico in these situations.”

FIFA may yet impose a lengthier ban, as the governing body retains the authority to review the incident and increase the punishment if deemed appropriate.

Concluding his statement online, Jackson pledged to learn from the setback and return stronger:

“I’ll reflect, I’ll grow, and I’ll come back stronger — for the badge and for everyone who believes in me.
Sorry. Sorry. Sorry.”