LONDON – Chelsea legend John Obi Mikel has sent a clear message to the club’s board: to win major trophies again, the Blues must secure the signing of Victor Osimhen.
Speaking in an exclusive interview with Sky Sports, the former Champions League winner insisted that the current Galatasaray striker is the “missing piece” in Enzo Maresca’s tactical puzzle. Mikel believes that despite Chelsea’s attacking talent, the squad lacks a seasoned “killer” who can decide high-stakes matches.
“He Can Do Everything”
Mikel was full of praise for his fellow countryman, highlighting Osimhen’s versatility as a modern number nine.
“Victor Osimhen is the one. He can stretch the game, he can run behind the defense, he can hold the ball up, and he can score goals. He can do everything,” Mikel stated. He emphasized that Osimhen’s experience on the big stage is exactly what Chelsea’s young squad needs to bridge the gap to the Premier League title contenders.
The Search for a Decisive Leader
For Mikel, the issue isn’t just talent, but the ability to perform under pressure. “You need that experienced striker who has been there before, who knows how to win important games,” the former midfielder added. “Someone who knows how to be in the right place at the right time in the big moments.”
Concerns Between the Posts
Mikel didn’t stop at the attack. He also voiced concerns regarding Chelsea’s current goalkeeping situation. Despite the presence of Robert Sánchez and Filip Jörgensen, the Nigerian legend believes the club still lacks a truly world-class presence in goal.
“The goalkeeper issue is crucial. I simply believe that if you want to win trophies, you need a top-level goalkeeper,” Mikel warned, echoing the frustrations of many Chelsea supporters regarding the team’s defensive consistency this season.
Thiago Nuno is a football editor and analyst covering European leagues, match statistics, and transfer market trends.
