Chelsea icon John Obi Mikel has issued a powerful and critical message to the club's current ownership, warning that the Stamford Bridge giants risk losing their cherished winning culture.
A Damning Verdict on Club Direction
In an exclusive interview, the former midfielder, who enjoyed eleven trophy-laden years in West London, expressed deep concern over the club's trajectory. He delivered a stark assessment of the decision to part ways with head coach Enzo Maresca earlier this month, a move that has left supporters disgruntled.
Mikel argued that under Maresca, Chelsea had progressed, but sacking him represented a major regression. "I thought he would get more time to grow with that team," Mikel stated. "I think we've taken one step forward and five steps backwards."
The Rosenior Challenge and Fan Discontent
Mikel's comments come as new boss Liam Rosenior prepares for his first home game in charge, a Carabao Cup clash against Arsenal on Wednesday night. Rosenior faces the immense task of uniting a fanbase that has grown increasingly hostile towards co-owners Todd Boehly and Behdad Eghbali.
The former Nigeria international emphasised that the new manager's success is inextricably linked to mending the rift with supporters. "Liam has to create that winning mentality again, he has to make sure he brings the fans with him, because he needs the fans," Mikel said. "Right now, the fans are not happy."
He directed a clear plea to the ownership, stressing the fundamental role of the club's followers. "They have to listen to the fans... Without the fans, there's no football club."
Leadership Void and Player Concerns
Mikel pinpointed a critical lack of experienced leaders within the current squad as a root cause of inconsistency, contrasting it sharply with his era. He recalled being surrounded by figures like Frank Lampard, John Terry, and Didier Drogba who could galvanise the team during difficult moments.
"You need players that can tell you this on the pitch, that can coach you on the pitch," he explained. "And that's what I don't see with this squad right now."
Furthermore, Mikel raised the alarm that continued instability and a lack of top-level success could drive away established stars. He specifically mentioned World Cup winner Enzo Fernandez and Moises Caicedo, suggesting their patience may wear thin.
"Those players will be looking and thinking: 'I don't want to wait another five years before I can win the Premier League or the Champions League,'" Mikel warned. He fears constant managerial changes could plant seeds of doubt in players' minds about their long-term future at the club.
Mikel's intervention serves as a powerful reminder of the standards expected at Chelsea, as the new regime navigates one of its most turbulent periods since taking over.
