Former Nigerian midfielder John Obi Mikel has criticised Chelsea defender Tosin Adarabioyo for his costly error in the club’s recent 2-1 defeat to Sunderland.
The Premier League clash saw Chelsea take an early lead through Alejandro Garnacho in the fourth minute. Sunderland fought back with a goal from Wilson Isidor and sealed victory with a late strike by Chemsdine Talbi.
Speaking on his “Obi One Podcast,” Mikel questioned Adarabioyo’s decision-making in defending the pass that led to Talbi’s winner.
“The defending was poor. Listen, I don’t like pointing fingers,” Mikel said. “Tosin, what are you doing?! Five or six seconds, he controlled the ball, the striker, and you’re standing behind him. Yes, Tosin, yes. [Trevoh] Chalobah as well. Was Chalobah looking at the man arriving late to the box? Was he trying to calculate where the man is coming?”
Mikel, who played as a defensive midfielder, is widely regarded as one of Chelsea’s most successful Nigerian players. During his time at the club, he won two Premier League titles, the UEFA Champions League, the FA Cup, and several other trophies, earning a reputation for his tactical awareness and defensive discipline.
The former star’s comments have sparked conversations among fans and analysts, with many questioning Chelsea’s defensive organisation in the game. Adarabioyo, who has struggled for consistency since joining Chelsea, now faces increased scrutiny from supporters and pundits alike.
Chelsea will be hoping to regroup quickly as they aim to improve their Premier League standing, while Mikel’s analysis highlights the challenges defenders face in high-pressure matches.
