On the back of a string of disappointing results in September, Enzo Maresca’s position as Chelsea head coach has become a topic of discussion.
Former Chelsea midfielder John Obi Mikel has now delivered his verdict on Maresca as the scrutiny increases around the Italian manager.
Under Maresca’s stewardship, Chelsea slipped to a disappointing 3-1 defeat at home to Brighton last weekend, which means it’s just two wins from their opening six Premier League matches this season.
The results have resulted in some strong criticism from certain sections of the Blues fans, with some even calling for the 45-year-old to be relieved of his duties.
However, Mikel believes that it would be wrong to sack the manager, especially since he won two trophies during his first campaign in charge last year.
Meanwhile, reports have claimed that the Chelsea ownership is willing to give Maresca time to get his act together and fix the ongoing mini-slump.
📲 Follow The Sporting News on WhatsApp
John Obi Mikel voices his support for Enzo Maresca
John Obi Mikel, the former Chelsea star, has firmly voiced his support for Maresca because he massively rates him as a coach.
However, Mikel advised Maresca to start beating lesser teams more frequently, but added that he maintains confidence in the Italian as a coach.
Speaking on The Obi One Podcast, Mikel said, “I know a lot of the Chelsea fans are slowly now trying to turn against Enzo Maresca. I like Enzo Maresca. I think he’s a fantastic manager, but he needs to find a way of winning games. He needs to find a way of winning the small games, the easy games…
“Enzo Maresca as well needs to become a winning manager. I know a lot of fans are saying, ‘Is he a winning manager, or is he just a manager to compete?’ I believe that he can start to win trophies. He needs to change his mentality and be more proactive.”
It’s hard to disagree with Mikel’s assessment of Maresca, given everything that he has achieved with the club over the last year.
Maresca has earned the right to be given more time to turn things around at Stamford Bridge, and the Chelsea owners are right to stick with him for the time being.
Chelsea news and related links
- Jamie Carragher’s blistering verdict take leaves Chelsea fans with questions
- Enzo Maresca delivers his verdict on Alejandro Garnacho's performance against Lincoln City
- Chelsea facing major defensive crisis with two fresh injury concerns