John Obi Mikel tells Enzo Maresca to revamp the Chelsea defence
John Obi Mikel has encouraged Chelsea to buy two ‘world-class’ centre-backs for Enzo Maresca this summer.
Chelsea are likely to make Tosin Adarabioyo their first acquisition under Maresca, with the 26-year-old defender moving from Fulham on a free transfer.
However, Obi-Mikel feels his previous team will feel the impact of Thiago Silva’s departure next season and says that neither Benoit Badiashile nor Axel Disasi are prepared to step up.
He identified defensive flaws as a critical area requiring immediate repair.
‘We need proven, two top centre-backs who will come in there and stabilise that back four. We need that. We need two world-class centre-halves.’
Mikel,The Obi One Podcast
Mikel’s appeal for ‘world-class’ acquisitions echoes a larger view among Chelsea fans who have watched the club’s defensive problems.
Mikel was also dismissive of Mykhaylo Mudryk after the winger’s underwhelming first full season in the Premier League.
‘Nah, he needs to cut his hair, he needs to get rid of the tattoos and focus on playing for Chelsea,’ Mikel added.
The Obi One Podcast
On the other hand, he seems optimistic about Noni Madueke’s future under Maresca, believing Chelsea’s new manager must find a way to enhance Enzo Fernandez and Moises Caicedo’s performances.
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With the summer transfer market open, Chelsea have been connected with a number of high-profile defenders.
Mikel’s words come at a crucial time for Chelsea, as the club strives to rebuild and reestablish itself as a dominant force in both domestic and European championships.