Chelsea’s rough start to the season – just two wins so far – has sparked criticism from fans and ex-players alike. Performances have been unconvincing, with the lucky EFL Cup win over Lincoln City highlighting deeper problems in Enzo Maresca’s squad.
Reports suggest Maresca himself is frustrated with the board after the summer transfer window, hinting at tension between the dugout and the recruitment team.
Mikel’s Verdict
Former Chelsea midfielder John Obi Mikel has once again hit out at the club’s new ownership. On his podcast, he argued that Chelsea failed in two key areas this summer:
Centre-back cover: With injuries leaving the defence exposed, Mikel insists another top central defender should have been signed.
Goalkeeper upgrade: Mikel slammed the choice of simply picking up Mike Maignan for free instead of pushing for a world-class option like Gianluigi Donnarumma, who joined Manchester City.
“Attack will win you games, but the goalkeeper and defence win you trophies,” Mikel stressed.
“Chelsea must always think about winning the league – every single year.”
The Bigger Picture
Joe Shields, Paul Winstanley, Laurence Stewart and Sam Jewell, the recruitment chiefs, are under scrutiny despite delivering a UEFA Conference League trophy last season.
The ownership’s transfer policy is increasingly being questioned by ex-players, pundits, and – reportedly – Maresca himself.
