Although Chelsea secured the FIFA Club World Cup title in July, Mikel Obi remains skeptical about their prospects of clinching the Premier League crown this season.
Ex-Super Eagles midfielder Mikel Obi has expressed doubts over Chelsea’s ability to win the English Premier League this term, citing weaknesses in their defensive line and goalkeeping, according to Soccernet.ng.
Under the guidance of Enzo Maresca, who took charge last season, Chelsea have shown notable progress.
They lifted the UEFA Conference League trophy last season and stunned football fans worldwide by reaching the FIFA Club World Cup final in July, where they triumphed over Paris Saint-Germain to claim the title.
These achievements, combined with fresh acquisitions like Joao Pedro and Estevao, have heightened expectations for Chelsea this season, with many predicting a strong title challenge.
Nevertheless, the London club’s start to the Premier League campaign has been inconsistent, accumulating eight points from five matches, with two wins, two draws, and one defeat.
Mikel Obi’s Perspective on Chelsea’s Premier League Title Hopes
Mikel Obi, who spent a significant portion of his career at Chelsea, has voiced his skepticism about the club’s chances of securing the Premier League trophy this season.
His concerns primarily revolve around the defensive unit and goalkeeping options, as he lacks faith in Robert Sanchez and Filip Jorgensen’s capabilities.
Additionally, Obi doubts the reliability of Tosin Adarabioyo, who has been the preferred center-back in Levi Colwill’s absence.
“I’m hopeful we can win the Premier League. Offensively, we’re impressive – creating numerous opportunities,” Mikel shared on his Obi One Podcast.
“It’s encouraging to see Cole Palmer back in form, scoring and assisting, though unfortunately, he’ll be sidelined for a while.”
“However, the defensive situation worries me. Even with Levi Colwill available, I believe we need an additional center-back.”
“Look at other top teams: Liverpool have Virgil van Dijk and Konaté, Manchester City rely on Ruben Dias and John Stones, Arsenal boast Gabriel and Saliba.”
“A strong spine is essential – two top-class center-backs. We need another elite defender alongside Levi Colwill.”
“Once we address that and secure a dependable goalkeeper, I think Chelsea can genuinely contend for the Premier League.”
“But with the current squad, winning the league will be a tough challenge. The Premier League is a marathon, not a sprint,” he concluded.
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“I don’t see Tosin as the leader our defense needs.”
Mikel Obi remains unconvinced that Chelsea’s current defensive lineup can secure the league title. pic.twitter.com/1ezGSevO8i
– @ (@OneJoblessBoy) September 25, 2025
Despite Obi’s reservations, the season is still young, and much can evolve before its conclusion. Chelsea currently trail league leaders Liverpool by seven points, with the Reds maintaining a perfect record so far.
Should Enzo Maresca manage to field a fully fit squad, Chelsea could mount a serious challenge for the Premier League title as the campaign progresses.
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