'My intention is to win' - Enzo Maresca responds to Mikel Obi's criticism amid Chelsea's struggles

Chelsea manager Enzo Maresca has addressed recent comments made by club legend John Mikel Obi regarding the team's current struggles in the Premier League. 

Mikel, a former Super Eagles midfielder and 2012 UEFA Champions League winner, expressed his frustration on his podcast about Chelsea's poor performance, particularly following a disheartening 3-0 defeat to Brighton & Hove Albion.

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This loss saw the Blues drop to sixth place in the league days after the Seagulls dumped them out of a Cup competition.

Mikel Obi did not hesitate to assess the situation. He stated that the club's current predicament would have warranted immediate action in the past. 

He remarked that “that would have been a f**ing crisis back in the day. The helicopter would have been, surely would have landed by now.” 

He emphasised that while he is not calling for Maresca’s dismissal, the current state of affairs is unacceptable.

The Nigerian legend pointed out that Chelsea cannot afford to miss out on Champions League football. He declared, “It will be a disaster if we don’t finish in the Champions League position.” 

Mikel criticised Maresca’s earlier comments about the team not being title contenders. He suggested that such statements have negatively affected the players’ mindset.

In response to Mikel's tirade, Maresca clarified his ambitions for Chelsea. He stated per ESPN, “Since day one I joined this club, my intention is to win games, to win titles, and to bring this club to where it deserves to be.” 

He acknowledged the pressure that comes with managing such a prestigious club. However, he insisted on his commitment to achieving success.

“The problem is as I said when you win, you look humble. When you don’t win, you look like you lack ambition. I am ambitious; the club is ambitious.” 

His comments show a desire to instil confidence and a winning mentality within the squad despite ongoing challenges.

Mikel’s strong words resonate with many fans who are disappointed with Chelsea’s decline from title contenders to struggling mid-table performers. The former midfielder's passion for the club shines through as he urges fans not to accept mediocrity. He highlights the need for a return to Chelsea’s winning ways.

With pressure mounting on the manager, expectations are high from fans and former players alike. It remains to be seen how Chelsea will respond in their quest for redemption in the Premier League.