John Obi Mikel Criticises Chelsea for Sacking Enzo Maresca, Says Blues Have Gone Backwards Under Liam Rosenior

John Obi Mikel has strongly criticised Chelsea for their decision to part ways with Enzo Maresca, describing the move as “absolutely crazy” and insisting the club have regressed under his successor, Liam Rosenior.

Maresca left Stamford Bridge on New Year’s Day following a reported breakdown in his relationship with the club’s hierarchy. Despite guiding Chelsea to UEFA Champions League qualification and winning both the Conference League and Club World Cup in his debut season, the Italian’s tenure ended after a poor run of form that saw the Blues record just one win in their final seven Premier League matches.

Rosenior was appointed shortly after Maresca’s departure, and while results have shown signs of improvement, Mikel believes the decision to change managers has ultimately set the club back.

Speaking on his Obi One Podcast, the former Super Eagles captain did not hold back in his assessment. He pointed to Chelsea’s lack of consistency and even referenced their league position relative to Manchester United as a worrying sign.

Obi Mikel said: “Man United being above Chelsea, given how they started the season, is just incredible, it’s awful to see. I don’t see any consistency at Chelsea.

“We had Enzo Maresca, and I think it was a massive mistake to sack him. I still believe that, I still stand by that.

“It’s ridiculous. A manager who won us the Club World Cup and Conference League, we had some sort of identity with the way we played.

“For the club to sack him is absolutely crazy. We have gone five steps backwards. Yes, Liam has come in, and he’s won games, but there is absolutely something that is missing. Something is not quite right.”