Former Super Eagles captain Mikel Obi has expressed his disappointment with Chelsea’s Nicholas Jackson following the club’s first defeat of the 2024-25 English Premier League season against Manchester City, Soccernet.ng reports.
Chelsea’s new head coach, Enzo Maresca, faced a tough start as Pep Guardiola’s side secured a 2-0 victory, taking all three points back to the Etihad Stadium.
Mikel, who played a pivotal role in Chelsea's midfield during his time at the club, did not hold back in his criticism of the Senegalese forward, blaming the former Villarreal CF striker for missing crucial chances that could have altered the course of the match.
In his remarks, Mikel questioned Jackson's ability to deliver in the attacking department, suggesting that Chelsea’s current striker options are inadequate.
“You need a striker who knows how to find the back of the net, and that’s something we’re missing,” Mikel stated. “I know I often criticise him, and it may come across as disrespect, but that’s not my intention.”
A PASSIONATE @Mikel_John_Obi rant on the Chelsea slide towards "being comfortable" with mediocrity.
A MUST WATCH.#beINPL #CFC pic.twitter.com/4RMKzJb0hu
— beIN SPORTS (@beINSPORTS_EN) August 18, 2024
Chelsea are still in the race to sign Nigerian international Victor Osimhen from Napoli, a move that could address their attacking woes.
The concerns raised by Mikel and many other football enthusiast may further boost Chelsea's determination to secure the prolific striker before the transfer window closes.
