Former Chelsea and Nigeria midfielder John Mikel Obi has suggested that Arsenal manager Mikel Arteta should step down if he fails to win the Premier League next season.
Speaking on The Obi One Podcast, Mikel Obi ruled out Arsenal’s chances of clinching the title this season despite their second-place position, trailing Liverpool by six points. He believes Arteta’s six-year tenure by next season should culminate in a league title or result in his departure from the club.
“If Mikel Arteta doesn’t win the league next season, I think he should leave the football club,” Mikel remarked.
He highlighted the increasing competition from top Premier League teams, predicting that Arsenal’s path to the title would be even more challenging in the coming season.
“Manchester City will come back stronger, we [Chelsea] will be stronger, Liverpool, Manchester United, and Newcastle are all improving. It’s going to be tough for Arsenal,” he explained.
Mikel Obi’s comments follow Arsenal’s recent 0-2 defeat to Newcastle United in the semi-finals of the English Football League (EFL) Cup.
The EFL Cup is no longer an option, therefore, Arsenal will bet their hopes on the Premier League, UEFA Champions League, and FA Cup for potential silverware this season.
Arteta, who has been praised for rebuilding the Gunners into title contenders, now faces heightened expectations as fans demand the ultimate prize— the Premier League title.
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