Chelsea legend and former Super Eagles captain, Mikel Obi, has expressed doubts about Mikel Arteta’s ability to lead Arsenal to Premier League or UEFA Champions League glory.
Arsenal edged Newcastle 1-0 on Sunday, securing their place in next season’s Champions League and boosting their chances of finishing second in the Premier League. The Gunners now sit on 71 points, ahead of Newcastle United, Chelsea, and Aston Villa, who are all tied on 66 points after 37 games.
If Arsenal secure second place, it will mark the third consecutive season they finish as runners-up, each time behind Manchester City.
Despite the club’s progress under Arteta, conversations continue to swirl about whether he is the right manager to deliver major silverware. Many acknowledge the stability he has brought during his five-year tenure, including a recent run to the UEFA Champions League semi-finals with a depleted squad. However, questions remain about his ability to consistently deliver top honors.
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While serving as a pundit for BeIN Sports during the Arsenal vs. Newcastle match, Mikel Obi shared his honest assessment. Though he praised Arteta’s managerial qualities, he expressed skepticism about the Spaniard’s ability to take Arsenal over the line.
“I don’t think anybody wants to be second—you want to be first. That’s why you play the game. You want to win trophies, and I’m sure it’s the same for this Arsenal team,” Obi said.
“Is Mikel Arteta the man to take them to that next level in terms of winning trophies? I don’t believe so.
“Is he a good manager? Yes. But is he the guy to lead them to Premier League or Champions League titles? I don’t think so. If he doesn’t manage that next season, I think it’ll be time for him to step aside.”
Obi enjoyed a highly decorated career at Chelsea, where he spent 10 seasons and helped the Blues win two Premier League titles, one Champions League, one Europa League, four FA Cups, two League Cups, and a Community Shield.
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