John Obi Mikel Urges Chelsea to Make Three More Signings to Become Title Contenders

Chelsea legend John Obi Mikel believes his former club is close to challenging for the Premier League title again — but insists they still need at least three more signings to truly compete.

Under new head coach Enzo Maresca, the Blues ended last season strongly and returned to the Champions League places with a fourth-place finish. They also lifted the Europa Conference League trophy, giving fans new hope after years of inconsistency.

And with Chelsea heading to the USA this summer for the revamped Club World Cup — where they could earn up to £100 million if they win — Mikel believes that cash must be reinvested smartly.

Speaking to Metro, the former midfielder said:
“Bring in an experienced centre-back, another midfield player and another winger. That’s what we need. We have to keep improving.”

One position Mikel is particularly concerned about is the wing, especially after Jadon Sancho returned to Manchester United. He thinks Chelsea need someone with flair, who can beat players and score goals — and he isn’t sure Noni Madueke is consistent enough.

Madueke had a decent season, scoring 11 goals and providing five assists. But he was also criticised by Maresca over training performances and even dropped from the squad at one point during the campaign.

Mikel believes Madueke has the talent but must step up.
“There’s a lot more expected from Noni,” Mikel said. “He can definitely do more — more defensively and in terms of scoring goals. I’d like to keep him, but if he has to go to bring in another top winger, I understand that.”

He added:
“Maybe there’s a reason Maresca wants to move him on. But as a Chelsea fan, I’d keep him — the talent is there, he just has to show it every week.”

Mikel, who won numerous trophies during his time at Stamford Bridge, also praised the current squad’s attitude and believes the taste of success in Europe could reignite the club’s famous winning culture.

“This young team now knows what it’s like to win something. That creates a winning mentality,” he said. “Chelsea is a club built on winning — and this could be the start of something special.”

With Liam Delap already signed and more players expected to arrive, Mikel is confident Chelsea are heading in the right direction — but he insists the hard work must continue.

“We’ve done good business, but we need more. If we can win the Club World Cup, it’s another big step. Then use that money wisely — and go again.”