Former Chelsea midfielder and club legend John Obi Mikel has heaped praise on Arsenal, singling out Mikel Arteta’s work in transforming the Gunners into one of the most formidable sides in football today. According to the Nigerian icon, the Arsenal manager has built a squad so balanced and competitive that it now stands as the strongest in the Premier League.
Mikel, who faced Arsenal many times during his trophy-laden career at Stamford Bridge, admitted that the current Arsenal setup is unlike anything the club has had in years. He highlighted their mix of youth and experience, their tactical discipline, and the relentless energy they bring in every department of the pitch. For him, this combination makes Arsenal not only a domestic powerhouse but a genuine threat across Europe.
“Arsenal’s squad depth is complete,” he said, underlining the fact that Arteta has two or even three reliable options in every position. From the defensive solidity of William Saliba and Gabriel, to the creativity of Martin Ødegaard, and the firepower provided by Bukayo Saka, Gabriel Jesus, and Gabriel Martinelli, Mikel believes the North London side can compete with – and even surpass – Europe’s elite.
This recognition is especially significant coming from a Chelsea great, given the fierce London rivalry between the two clubs. Mikel’s respect for Arsenal’s evolution shows just how far Arteta’s project has come. Once seen as outsiders struggling to keep pace with top-four rivals, Arsenal are now being discussed as genuine contenders not only for the Premier League title but also for the UEFA Champions League crown.
In many ways, Mikel’s praise reflects the wider footballing world’s acknowledgment that Arsenal have reestablished themselves at the very highest level. With a young squad brimming with talent, tactical innovation from Arteta, and a hunger for silverware, the Gunners are no longer a team for the future — they are a team of the present, and perhaps, the team to beat in Europe right now.
