“Absolutely crazy!’ – John Obi Mikel slams Chelsea over Enzo Maresca sack

Former Nigeria international John Obi Mikel has launched a scathing attack on his former outfit, Chelsea over their decision to part ways with Enzo Maresca, branding the move “absolutely crazy” and insisting the Blues have regressed under new boss Liam Rosenior.

Maresca’s spell at Chelsea FC came to an abrupt end on New Year’s Day following a reported breakdown in relations with the club’s hierarchy. The Italian tactician had enjoyed a dream debut season at Stamford Bridge, guiding Chelsea back into the UEFA Champions League while also lifting the UEFA Conference League and the FIFA Club World Cup.

However, a disappointing run of form late in the campaign, which saw the Blues manage just one win in their final seven Premier League matches, ultimately proved costly, prompting the club’s leadership to make a managerial change.

Rosenior was swiftly appointed as Maresca’s successor, and while results have shown some improvement in patches, Mikel believes the decision has disrupted the club’s progress and identity.

Speaking candidly on his Obi One Podcast, the former Super Eagles captain did not mince words. He questioned Chelsea’s lack of consistency and pointed to their league standing — even trailing rivals Manchester United at one stage — as evidence that the club has lost direction.

“Man United being above Chelsea, given how they started the season, is just incredible — it’s awful to see,” Mikel said. “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.”

Mikel’s comments reflect the frustration among sections of the Chelsea fanbase who felt Maresca deserved more time after delivering silverware and restoring a clear tactical blueprint.

With expectations always sky-high at Stamford Bridge, the pressure is now firmly on Rosenior to steady the ship and prove that the club’s bold decision will pay off in the long run.