Massive Mistake’ – Mikel Obi slams Chelsea for going ‘five steps backwards’ by sacking Enzo Maresca

Former Chelsea FC star, John Obi Mikel has strongly criticized the club’s decision to part ways with Enzo Maresca, describing the move as a “massive mistake” that has set the Blues back.

Mikel, who enjoyed a successful spell at Stamford Bridge, had been an outspoken admirer of the Italian coach. Under Maresca, Chelsea lifted both the Conference League and the Club World Cup, achievements the former midfielder believes signalled real progress.

Speaking on The Obi One Podcast, Mikel argued that Maresca had begun establishing a clear identity at the club before his dismissal.

“We had Enzo Maresca. I’ve said it. I think it was a massive mistake to sack him,” Mikel said. “It’s ridiculous. A manager that won us the Club World Cup, won us the Conference League — we had some sort of identity in the way we played.

“We took a step forward, and we’ve gone five steps backwards.”

Mikel acknowledged that Maresca’s successor, Liam Rosenior, has secured positive results since taking charge. However, he insisted something fundamental is missing from the team’s performances, particularly after recent home fixtures against Leeds and Burnley.

“Liam has come in and he’s won games, but there is absolutely something missing. Something is not quite right,” he added.

Rosenior has suffered just two defeats so far  both coming against Arsenal in the Carabao Cup semi-finals but debate continues among supporters and pundits over whether Chelsea have truly progressed since the managerial change.

For Mikel, silverware and a defined style of play under Maresca were signs of long-term development — and he believes the club may have disrupted that momentum prematurely.