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Former Chelsea and Nigeria midfielder John Obi Mikel has backed Enzo Maresca to transform the Blues while identifying the key signings needed for a title challenge, Footynaija.com reports.
Mikel also revealed that Chelsea had been close to securing Victor Osimhen last summer, suggesting a renewed push for the Nigerian striker could be on the horizon.
Speaking on Sky Sports, Mikel praised Maresca’s early work at Stamford Bridge, highlighting the club’s developing identity under the Italian. He stressed that a top-four finish this season would be the benchmark for success, setting up Chelsea for a potential title push next year.
0.35 – Chelsea’s xG total at the Emirates was their lowest in any game under Enzo Maresca, with today being his 43rd match in charge. Restricted. pic.twitter.com/cRcI5nFZdi
— OptaJoe (@OptaJoe) March 16, 2025
“Because I think we need to finish in the top four. I think this season is his first season and he needs a bit of time. After this season, if we finish in the top four, I think next season we can start competing for the league,” Mikel said.
The former Blues midfielder was clear about the squad’s deficiencies, emphasizing the need for reinforcements in key areas.
“I think we can get back there but we’re a bit far away from there. But with the players that we have now, there is so much talent in this team. Now the owners and sporting directors know what they need to do to strengthen the team. If we can strengthen those areas in the summer, I think we can compete to win the league.”
He outlined the positions Chelsea should focus on, urging the club to bring in a striker, goalkeeper, central defender, and potentially another midfielder.
“We need to get the right players in and get some players out, that I feel they are not ready to be in such a club like Chelsea. Then bring in maybe a striker, goalkeeper, and a central defender and another midfielder, I think then we should be competing to win the league.”
When asked who he believes is currently the best striker in the league, Mikel pointed to Newcastle United’s Alexander Isak, praising the Swedish forward’s performances.
“There is one that played for Newcastle. I think right now he’s the best in England. His numbers are certainly fantastic.”
3 April 2021: Alexander Isak fires Real Sociedad to Copa del Rey success, their first silverware in 34 years.
— Football on TNT Sports (@footballontnt) March 17, 2025
16 March 2025: Alexander Isak fires Newcastle United to Carabao Cup success, their first major silverware for 70 years.
Born winner pic.twitter.com/y6RuBKYpEk
Chelsea’s failed Osimhen deal
Mikel also shed light on Chelsea’s previous attempt to sign Victor Osimhen, confirming that the Blues were close to securing the Nigerian international before the deal fell through. He hinted that a renewed pursuit could be on the cards.
“The player (Victor Osimhen) really wants to come to the football club (Chelsea).”
— @ (@OneJoblessBoy) March 18, 2025
– Mikel Obi pic.twitter.com/KFDD0dFlUS
“And of course, the guy that has been talked about so many times, a certain guy called Victor Osimhen, who plays in Galatasaray.
“We almost sort of got the deal done in the summer. The club wanted the player, and the player wanted to come as well. I know exactly where we stopped. If we want to pick it up again in the summer, it is just really easy to get it done.”
With Chelsea desperate to reclaim their place among the league’s elite, all eyes will be on their summer transfer activity—particularly their pursuit of a top-class striker like Osimhen.
