Chelsea’s stunning 3-0 win over Paris Saint-Germain in the Club World Cup final has ignited excitement among fans, but club legend John Obi Mikel believes the victory shouldn’t mask key weaknesses. The former midfielder has called on the Blues to upgrade their squad—particularly in goal and defense—if they aim to challenge for the Premier League and Champions League titles next season.
Chelsea’s Global Statement: Club World Cup Glory
Chelsea’s recent form under new boss Enzo Maresca has been nothing short of remarkable. Fresh off securing Champions League qualification and lifting the UEFA Europa Conference League trophy, the Blues capped off a memorable run with a dominant 3-0 win over PSG in the Club World Cup final.
Cole Palmer was the standout performer, scoring twice and assisting another in a man-of-the-match display. Goalkeeper Robert Sanchez also earned praise for a clean sheet against the French giants—his best performance in a turbulent season.
Mikel: Sanchez Still Not the Long-Term Solution
Despite Sanchez’s heroics in the final, John Obi Mikel remains unconvinced the Spaniard is the answer between the sticks. Speaking to DAZN, the former Chelsea midfielder emphasized the need for a world-class goalkeeper to compete at the highest level.
“Robert Sanchez had a brilliant game today,” Mikel acknowledged. “But going into a new season with the Champions League, Premier League, and domestic cups, you need a top goalkeeper who can offer consistency and command the box.”
Mikel pointed to successful title-winning sides like Arsenal and Liverpool, citing the stability their top-tier goalkeepers provide.
“We Can’t Win the League with Sanchez”
Speaking separately to talkSPORT, Mikel was even more direct. He stated that Chelsea won’t be able to mount a serious title challenge with Sanchez as the first-choice keeper.
“We can’t go into the new season with Sanchez, I’m sorry,” Mikel said. “He’s made mistakes this tournament that luckily didn’t cost us, but that kind of luck won’t last over a 60-game season.”
He believes the vast majority of Chelsea fans would back a move for a new No.1, with Sanchez viewed as too inconsistent to lead the club to domestic and European success.
Reinforcements Needed in Central Defense
While Mikel praised young defender Levi Colwill’s potential, he also underlined the importance of bringing in a high-caliber centre-back to solidify the backline.
“Colwill has the potential to be top-class, but he needs a proper partner,” Mikel said. “Fofana and Colwill looked solid before the injury. Once Fofana was out, Colwill’s form dropped.”
The former midfielder expressed doubts over whether players like Tosin Adarabioyo and Benoit Badiashile are up to Chelsea’s standards, suggesting the club should target a proven Premier League defender in the mold of William Saliba or Gabriel Magalhães.
A Summer of Critical Decisions
As Chelsea look to build on their international success, club executives face a pivotal transfer window. While the current squad has delivered silverware and momentum, Mikel’s comments echo the sentiments of a fanbase hungry for sustained dominance.
With the Premier League and Champions League on the horizon, Chelsea must address their defensive frailties if they hope to match their ambition with results.
