Former Chelsea Star John Mikel Obi Rips Into Team After Defeat Against Everton
In the wake of Chelsea’s 2-0 defeat to Everton in the Premier League, former Chelsea midfielder John Mikel Obi has not held back in his criticism of the team, blasting Mauricio Pochettino’s side for lacking leadership on the pitch.
Speaking on his Obi One Podcast, Mikel Obi expressed his frustration, pointing out that the team’s current struggles stem from a lack of strong leadership when players are underperforming. He particularly emphasized the absence of a single figure who could step up and rally the team during difficult moments.
As Chelsea languishes in 12th position in the Premier League table, Mikel Obi did not mince his words, stating, “Are we just going to sit on the fence and say we are still in a rebuilding process? There is no time for that. We need to start winning games.”
The Nigerian football star pinpointed the dearth of leaders within the team, lamenting, “When I look at the team, it comes down to a lack of leaders. In the game against Everton, I looked around the pitch, there was not one single leader. There is no one to come out on the pitch to go at your colleagues and say, ‘Wake up, what are you doing?’ – this is what we had before.”
Mikel Obi then drew a stark contrast, reminiscing about the influential figures present in his time at Chelsea, such as Didier Drogba, John Terry, and Frank Lampard. He emphasized how these seasoned players had the ability to elevate the team’s performance by inspiring and motivating their teammates, even during tough periods within a game.
Reflecting on the pivotal role of these former Chelsea stalwarts, Mikel Obi remarked, “The likes of Didier Drogba, John Terry, and Frank Lampard, when you are having a s* game, these guys would make you wake up. I look at the manager; I didn’t see him scream at one of the players to say, ‘Do your f job, wake up, make sure you run around and make sure we win the game’.”
With Mikel Obi’s pointed critique, the spotlight now shines on Chelsea’s current crop of players and the coaching staff, urging them to address the deficiency in leadership and inspiration within the squad.
Mikel Obi’s candid assessment serves as a stark reminder of the influential figures that once defined Chelsea’s success, resonating with fans and pundits alike, as the club navigates a challenging period.
As the Blues seek to reclaim their winning form, the absence of strong leadership remains a pressing issue that demands attention and resolution.
