Former Super Eagles captain and Chelsea legend, John Mikel Obi, has tipped Arsenal to win this season’s UEFA Champions League.
Mikel, who made his name in the English Premier League (EPL) with Chelsea, said the current Arsenal team has what it takes to dominate both in England and in Europe.
Speaking on his podcast, the former midfielder praised the Gunners’ strong squad, confidence, and recent performances, describing them as a team finally ready to compete with the best.
“We’re talking about the Premier League, I think they can go on to win the Champions League, this is how good Arsenal are,” Mikel said. “It’s scary, I’m telling you, the squad they have, the players they have, the way they are playing, and I can see a little bit of a mental shift. I think right now they believe — there’s something there, I can feel it now, finally Arsenal are ready.”
Arsenal, managed by Mikel Arteta, are currently one of six English teams in the Champions League this season, alongside Manchester City, Liverpool, Newcastle United, Tottenham Hotspur, and Chelsea. The Gunners, who last appeared in the competition in the 2016/17 season before returning under Arteta, are seeking their first-ever Champions League title.
Mikel’s comments come as a surprise to some football fans, given his long association with Chelsea, who are not competing in the Champions League this season after finishing mid-table in the Premier League last year.
The Nigerian star, who won the Champions League with Chelsea in 2012, said Arsenal’s growing belief and squad depth could give them an edge over traditional European powerhouses like Real Madrid, Bayern Munich, and defending champions Manchester City.
Mikel’s praise for Arsenal adds to the growing conversation about the club’s transformation under Arteta, who has turned them into serious contenders at home and abroad after years of inconsistency.
As the competition progresses, fans will be watching closely to see if Mikel’s prediction comes true and if Arsenal can finally lift the trophy that has eluded them for decades.
