馃嚫馃嚦SenegalWest Africa
John Obi Mikel highlights Nicolas Jackson's importance to Chelsea FC, stating Cole Palmer "seems lost" without him
via SeneNews2 min read
Chelsea legend John Obi Mikel believes Cole Palmer "seems lost" in the Blues' attack since Nicolas Jackson's absence. Mikel, a former Chelsea midfielder, stated that the team sorely misses the unique technical qualities of the Senegalese international, who is currently on loan at Bayern Munich. The Blues have been going through a difficult period, particularly after a 3-0 home defeat to Manchester City, which significantly jeopardized their Champions League qualification hopes. Speaking on the "Obi one" podcast, Mikel acknowledged that Jackson's commitment and tactical intelligence were underestimated during his time at Stamford Bridge. Mikel stated, "I honestly think we miss him right now. I can say it here: what he brought us, no striker is doing currently. Yes, Joao Pedro scores goals, but look at what Nicolas Jackson brought in terms of high pressing and telepathic connection with Cole Palmer. Without him, Palmer seems lost." Mikel considers Jackson to be "superior to Delap." He emphasized that the chemistry between Jackson and Palmer was crucial to the team's success last season and noted that the void left by Jackson has not been filled, suggesting that Liam Delap, who arrived this summer, is not yet at the required level. Mikel added, "No one brings us that link-up play. Did he score enough goals? Maybe not. But did he give everything for the club? Absolutely. My only issue was the competition. I felt he wasn't patient enough to stay and fight for his place. If he were
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Must ReadDespite the Senegalese government's stance against public debt restructuring, financial markets are showing apprehension. Creditors, including Morgan Stanley Investment Management and BlueBay Asset Management, are exploring the formation of a committee to protect their interests should renegotiations become necessary. The Minister of Economy, Finance, and Planning, Cheikh Diba, recently reiterated that the state has not changed its position, favoring an alternative strategy over formal debt restructuring. However, investors are preparing for all scenarios, with informal discussions underway to establish a group of creditors. This committee would collectively represent bondholders if Senegal decides to restructure its debt, a common practice in international markets to coordinate creditor positions during negotiations with states facing repayment difficulties.
Must ReadIn July 2026, Senegal is experiencing record national growth driven by offshore platforms at Sangomar and Grand Tortue Ahmeyim, with crude oil exports from Sangomar becoming the country's primary export product, injecting over 200 billion FCFA monthly and significantly reducing the national budget deficit. However, this economic prosperity is contrasted by an alarming social reality: youth unemployment is nearly 23%. Reports from the ANSD indicate that over 35% of young Senegalese are classified as NEET Not in Employment, Education, or Training. This paradox highlights a "growth without jobs" scenario, where the extractive industry generates substantial wealth for the state but creates few employment opportunities. Dr. Ama Diallo, a research professor, notes that while oil enriches the state, it does not improve the daily lives of households in Dakar's suburbs. The current government's rigorous sovereignty policy aims to maximize national gains from oil contracts, but public funds alone cannot spontaneously create millions of jobs. A significant skills mismatch exists, with 70% of local graduates holding degrees in humanities and management, while the offshore industry requires highly specialized technical skills. Fatima Ba, an employment policy specialist, emphasizes the need for training reform, stating that offshore platforms require highly specialized engineers, not humanities graduates. Traditional sectors like artisanal fishing and agriculture are struggling, leading ma
Must ReadJudicial authorities in Sierra Leone have announced the abandonment of treason charges against former President Ernest Bai Koroma. Koroma, who led the West African nation from 2007 to 2018, was indicted in January 2024 for his alleged role in what authorities described as a 2023 coup attempt. He had traveled to Nigeria shortly after his indictment for medical treatment, with judicial authorization to stay for a maximum of three months, but did not return to Sierra Leone. A statement from the Attorney General and Minister of Justice's Office confirmed that a "notice of cessation of criminal proceedings" against Koroma had been filed, stating that the former president "is therefore free to return to Sierra Leone after his medical treatment or at any time of his choice." No specific explanation was provided for the decision to drop the charges, though political observers suggest it aims to promote national unity. The alleged coup attempt in November 2023 involved armed individuals assaulting a military arsenal, barracks, prisons, and police stations, resulting in clashes with security forces. Twenty-one people were killed, and hundreds of prisoners escaped before authorities regained control. At least 80 individuals, mostly military personnel, were arrested in connection with the events.