Former Chelsea midfielder, John Obi Mikel, has suggested that Mauricio Pochettino would have faced the sack if Roman Abramovich was still the owner of the club.
Mikel’s comments come in the wake of Chelsea’s recent struggles under new owner, Todd Boehly. During Abramovich’s tenure, Chelsea experienced a period of dominance, winning numerous trophies.
However, since the change in ownership, the club has struggled to replicate that success.
Pochettino, who took charge of Chelsea in the summer, has faced challenges in getting the team to perform consistently, resulting in the Blues currently sitting in 11th place in the Premier League.
Speaking to the Evening Standard, Mikel defended the players and coach, acknowledging that criticism has been excessive but highlighting the high expectations at Chelsea.
He stated, “This is Chelsea. You have to win. You have to win games and trophies.”
Mikel also emphasized the difference in patience between the current era and the Abramovich era, where managers were often replaced swiftly.
He expressed his belief that Pochettino would have lost his job already if Abramovich was still in charge.
While Mikel acknowledges the need to give the team time to gel and improve, he questions how much time should be allowed, given the club’s history of demanding success.
The pressure to secure Champions League football is mounting, as Chelsea recently lost the Carabao Cup final to a young Liverpool side.
Article updated 2 months ago. Content is written and modified by multiple authors.
