Maresca left Chelsea by mutual agreement on New Year’s Day 2026 after 18 months in charge, amid a breakdown in relations with senior figures at Stamford Bridge. The Italian guided the club to silverware, including the FIFA Club World Cup and UEFA Conference League titles, but tensions escalated due to inconsistencies in results, rotation disagreements, and reported links to potential moves elsewhere (such as discussions tied to Manchester City). His exit paved the way for Liam Rosenior’s appointment from Strasbourg on a long-term deal.
Speaking on his Obi One Podcast and in subsequent interviews, Mikel did not hold back in his verdict. “We had Enzo Maresca. I’ve said it, I think it was a massive mistake to sack him,” he stated. “I mean, it’s ridiculous. We took a step forward, and we’ve gone five steps backwards.” He argued that Maresca provided structure, identity, and a clear path forward, even as critics called for his head during tougher spells. Under the new regime, Mikel suggested something fundamental is “missing”—a lack of cohesion, leadership presence, and winning mentality that defined Chelsea in his playing days.
Mikel questioned the long-term vision at the club under the current ownership, pointing to ongoing recruitment issues, the absence of experienced big personalities on and off the pitch, and decisions that feel like gambles rather than calculated steps toward sustained success. “Back in the day, we used to have those big-name players or coaches,” he reflected. “The club has decided to go in this direction which I don’t know if it’s a gamble—we’ll wait and see.”
The comments have ignited fierce debate among the Chelsea fanbase. Many supporters echo Mikel’s sentiment, expressing frustration over dropped points from winning positions, inconsistent performances, and what they see as a lack of clear identity since Maresca’s exit. Social media has been flooded with reactions praising Mikel for voicing what fans have been thinking: “Obi Mikel speaking facts—five steps back is spot on,” and “We need leaders and vision, not more experiments.” Others defend the ownership’s strategy, arguing patience is needed with Rosenior’s approach.
Rosenior has won games since taking over but faces immediate pressure, including high-profile fixtures that will test his ability to restore momentum in the top-four race. Mikel’s brutally honest take has added to the scrutiny on the board and highlighted deeper concerns about leadership and direction at Stamford Bridge.
One thing is clear: Mikel has put the club on notice. Chelsea must now prove him wrong through results and renewed purpose—or risk further unrest among a fanbase desperate for stability and success. The pressure is mounting, and the coming months will define whether this is a temporary setback or a deeper regression.
