“It’s the only problem we have in this Chelsea squad now” – John Obi Mikel one problem Enzo Maresca needs to solve in his Chelsea squad ahead of Liverpool clash
Chelsea are now in a fantastic position under Enzo Maresca, but John Obi Mikel believes there is something missing.
Last season, the Blues barely qualified for the Europa Conference League, prompting Todd Boehly to select Enzo Maresca as Chelsea’s new manager.
In the short time he’s been here, Maresca has been able to establish a sense of unity among the Chelsea group, and this is beginning to show in their performances on the field.
However, Liverpool will put this Chelsea side to the test this weekend, providing a true indication of where the Blues are today and where they need to develop.
One person who still thinks Chelsea are missing something is John Obi Mikel. He believes that something John Terry used to do isn’t seen in the current squad at Stamford Bridge.
John Obi Mikel gives interview during Player and Legends Interviews at The Athenee Hotel on May 15, 2024 in Bangkok, Thailand.
John Obi Mikel says Chelsea are missing one big thing
The ever-reliable John Obi Mikel played 372 times for Chelsea. He played alongside some of the Blues greats, including John Terry and Frank Lampard.
He knows what a successful side looks like, having played in Champions League and Premier League winning teams at Chelsea.
However, he feels this current Chelsea side is missing something under Enzo Maresca.
Speaking on his own podcast on YouTube, John Obi Mikel says Chelsea don’t have someone like John Terry, who used to really lead the side and show loads of passion.
He said this.
“You remember how it used to be with John Terry in the second half, he would grab you around the neck, do you know what I mean.
“The leadership when I watch the games, I think, is not there because I don’t see players screaming at each other saying, come on, wake up, let’s go. But it’s starting to gel a little bit.”
John Obi Mikel is right.
When you look at this current Chelsea side there aren’t too many leaders that jump out, as it is typically a younger squad that Enzo Maresca has created.
Thiago Silva, Cesar Azpilicueta and John Terry are a few names that have been relied upon to really provide that leadership and calmness in years gone by.
Reece James has been out of the side for so long that he’s not been able to influence things on the field, though he will be playing a big part behind the scenes.