‘Arsenal were cheating’ — Super Eagles legend Mikel slams Gunners over set-piece gimmicks against Chelsea

Former Super Eagles captain John Obi Mikel has launched a scathing attack on Arsenal’s set-piece tactics following their 2-1 victory over Chelsea.

While the Gunners moved five points clear at the top of the Premier League, Mikel accused Mikel Arteta’s side of exploiting loopholes and benefiting from questionable officiating.

Speaking after Arsenal’s win over Chelsea at the Emirates, John Obi Mikel did not mince words when assessing the Gunners’ performance.

“Arsenal, yes, they did win the game, but they were awful, they were horrible to watch. There was no creativity in the team. They were cheating,” Mikel said.

The former Chelsea midfielder specifically questioned the legality of Arsenal’s physical approach during corners, including Declan Rice grappling with Joao Pedro inside the box.

“Are you telling me those corner kicks are legal? Are you telling me Declan Rice grabbing Joao Pedro is legal?” he asked.

Mikel also criticised match officials, suggesting referees allow excessive pushing, shoving, and blocking before the ball is delivered. Under current laws, because the ball is not in play until the corner is taken, referees cannot penalise grappling beforehand, a loophole that has drawn widespread debate.

Despite mounting complaints from rival managers, football lawmakers at the International Football Association Board (IFAB) confirmed they have no plans to amend corner-kick regulations, insisting the issue is “not getting worse.”

Arsenal’s mastery from dead-ball situations has become a defining feature of their title charge under Mikel Arteta.

Against Chelsea, the Gunners scored twice from corners, first through William Saliba’s header and later via Jurrien Timber from a Declan Rice delivery.

The win restored their five-point lead over Manchester City F.C. and took their tally to 16 Premier League goals from corners this season, matching the all-time single-campaign record.

Arteta defended his side’s approach after the game, highlighting the importance of set-pieces in tight matches.

“They can be a nightmare to defend against,” he said. “When it’s live and they are so aggressive, pushy, effective, difficult to handle, it’s very tough.”

While critics label Arsenal’s methods as “dark arts,” supporters argue they are simply maximising every legal advantage available. With IFAB opting against rule changes and the Gunners continuing to profit from their corner routines, the controversy looks set to rumble on as the title race intensifies.