Chelsea legend John Obi Mikel has remained passionate about what is going on at the club, and has not always been happy about how things are going under the new owners.
Very few Blues players have been safe from criticism. Mikel has been scathing about Nicolas Jackson numerous times, with him believing the club need a new striker to go to the next level.
It has not all been negative however. Mikel has praised Marc Cucurella for his turnaround and for becoming one of the club’s best players.
Having played under Jose Mourinho at Chelsea, the former midfielder has always had plenty to say about whoever is in charge, with that role currently being held by Enzo Maresca.
The boss is under pressure to deliver in the final two games of the season, with the Conference League final coming three days after the trip to the City Ground.
John Obi Mikel fires warning to Todd Boehly ahead of the summer
Despite there being a chance the Blues finish outside the Champions League places and without a trophy this season, Mikel believes the club need to stick with the Italian going into next season.
He said on the Obi One Podcast: “You have to, there’s no question about that. Of course, it’s stupid to sack Maresca. We can’t do that. He’s on a good path. I don’t even want to say it, but if we don’t qualify for the Champions League, I will be disappointed. He’s a brilliant young manager. I like him. I like the way he’s dealing with those players.
“He calls them out when they’re not performing, and I like the way he’s led the team this season. It’s a brilliant achievement, we just have to finish the job now.
“Enzo Maresca stays. The board you are watching. He’s not going anywhere.”
Latest from Chelsea on Maresca’s future
Todd Boehly and co have not been hesitant to pull the trigger when replacing managers. Thomas Tuchel, Graham Potter and Mauricio Pochettino have all been quickly dismissed.
However, it looks as if they have a different stance on their current boss. The latest reports state Maresca is safe no matter what happens in the next week.
Earlier this season Maresca was described as ‘untouchable’, and it is clear a number of players have drastically improved since his hiring.
As well as Cucurella, Enzo Fernandez and Moises Caicedo have both performed at their best levels since their move to Stamford Bridge.
