Chelsea icon John Obi Mikel has made a bold prediction about the future of Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta.
Speaking on his Obi One Podcast, Mikel cast doubt on Arsenal’s ability to secure the Premier League title next season and suggested that Arteta should step down if he fails to deliver by the end of the 2025/2026 campaign, Footballrover reports.
Mikel Obi’s critical view of Mikel Arteta’s leadership at the Emirates
Mikel’s comments come as Arsenal struggles to challenge for the title, currently trailing Liverpool by six points in second place.
With over £800 million invested under Arteta, Mikel warned that another failed title bid could lead to managerial changes at the club.
He expressed concern that Arsenal’s mental fortitude has been tested by their recent near misses in the title race, particularly against Manchester City, and pointed to the pressure mounting on Arteta.
“That’s going to be seven seasons, and you have spent close to 800 million. I don’t think they are going to win the league this season. If he doesn’t win the league next season, I think he should walk because City is going to be back,” Mikel added.
Mikel also predicted that top clubs, including Chelsea, Liverpool, Manchester United, and Newcastle, are set to strengthen next season, making it even harder for Arsenal to succeed.
He criticised Arsenal for repeatedly faltering in key moments, attributing this to mental challenges that have plagued the club for years.
Obi Mikel raises concerns over Arsenal’s title push without Saka
Mikel also highlighted the impact of injuries, particularly the absence of Bukayo Saka.
He emphasised that Saka’s attacking influence, alongside Martin Ødegaard, is crucial to Arsenal’s success.
Wrapping up his comments, Mikel reaffirmed his position on Arteta’s future:
“For me, it’s a worry; if he doesn’t win the league next season, I think he should raise his hands and walk. That’s what I believe because that’s going to be his seventh season. I think the Arsenal fans will agree with me on that; sometimes you can take a team to a level, if you think you can’t get them over the line, then walk.”
Meanwhile, Arteta has also expressed concern over how the team will manage without Saka, who is expected to return by March, stressing the importance of finding a way to win in his absence.
Be the first to comment on "Chelsea legend Obi Mikel reveals when Arteta must quit as Arsenal boss: ‘Fans will agree with me’"