‘It's shambolic what's going on’ - Mikel Obi slams Chelsea hierarchy for sacking Maresca

Maresca, who was appointed in June 2024, led Chelsea to both the UEFA Conference League and FIFA Club World Cup titles in his first season. 

However, his tenure was cut short following a reported rift with the board over transfer policy, leading to his departure.

A poor run of form between November and December, which saw the team win just two of nine matches, further strained the relationship.

Speaking on his "Obi One Podcast," Mikel expressed his disappointment with the Italian's dismissal, arguing that the hierarchy should have shown more patience.

"It's shambolic what's going on at the football club. It's crazy," the 2013 Africa Cup of Nations winner stated. 

"Enzo Maresca was a fantastic coach for us. He was successful, did really well, won a few trophies, and it's a shame for me to see him go."

Mikel praised Maresca's connection with the squad, noting, "I'm a big Enzo fan. I liked what he did with the players at his disposal. The players absolutely loved him. You can tell when players are fighting for the manager."

However, he acknowledged that Maresca's public comments about the board's lack of trust made his position untenable. 

"When you come out as a coach to make that statement, you're setting yourself up for a sack... it was an accident waiting to happen."

The former Nigerian international believes the constant managerial turnover is detrimental to the young squad's development. 

"Changing managers doesn't help... It disrupts the whole thing. On the pitch, we were growing well, having an identity, but the last few months knocked us off course."