Posted by Chinenye on Thu 07th May, 2026 - tori.ng
Former Chelsea midfielder John Obi Mikel has criticized the club’s current owners, claiming that the team has lost its traditional “DNA” under BlueCo leadership and moved away from the values built during the Roman Abramovich era.
John Obi Mikel has criticised Chelsea's current owners. The former midfielder believes that BlueCo is purposely distanced from club symbols from Roman Abramovich's great era, and as a result, Chelsea has lost its 'DNA'. 'They no longer want anyone who contributed to this club's success.'
Mikel urged in his Obi One Podcast for John Terry to have a larger role in the club. Terry served as captain for several years throughout the club's most successful time, winning five league titles and the Champions League with Chelsea.
The club icon is now working in a part-time capacity at the junior academy, but recently revealed that he has not received a call to join interim manager Calum McFarlane's team following the dismissal of Liam Rosenior.
According to Mikel, Terry does not need to be assigned to a specific position, but he does need to be closer to the group in order to communicate to young players what Chelsea stands for as a club.
Mikel spent eleven years with Chelsea, winning the Champions League, Europa League, and two league crowns. That is why he is concerned about the club's current path. 'The football club's DNA is gone. "This is no longer the Chelsea I love," said the former player. "I'm not saying we have to win everything every year, but we should show that we're making progress."
The criticism comes at a difficult time for Chelsea.
The London team lost 3-1 against Nottingham Forest on Monday and is thus no longer eligible for Champions League play. Chelsea is presently eighth in the Premier League and faces the prospect of missing out on European competition.
As a result, the FA Cup final versus Manchester City on May 16 is regarded as the best chance of remaining in the Europa League next season. Meanwhile, supporters are growing frustrated with owners Todd Boehly and Clearlake Capital.