Chelsea are enduring a tough stretch in their season, prompting former midfielder John Obi Mikel to suggest that one player could make a difference if given more opportunities on the pitch.
Under the management of Enzo Maresca, Chelsea began the season in fine form, registering 18 victories in 30 matches across all competitions in the first half of the campaign.
However, their recent performances have faltered, with the team failing to secure a win in their last four Premier League matches—settling for two draws and suffering two losses. This slump has seen Chelsea slide down to fourth in the league standings.
Micah Richards has been vocal about Chelsea’s defensive shortcomings, labeling their backline as “sloppy” and urging the team to address these issues quickly to regain momentum.
Mikel Calls for More Joao Felix Involvement
John Obi Mikel has raised questions over Joao Felix’s lack of playing time this season. The 25-year-old forward, who joined Chelsea from Atletico Madrid for £45 million during the summer, has found himself increasingly sidelined under Maresca. Felix has been left on the bench in three of Chelsea’s last four league games, signaling his diminished role in the team.
Speaking on his podcast, Mikel expressed his concerns:
“I’m baffled by Joao Felix’s exclusion. It feels like he’s been completely left out of the plans. I know Cole Palmer has been excelling in a similar role, and perhaps the coach is reluctant to replace him. But Felix is an exceptional talent, and we need to find a way to involve him. He can be a real asset for the team.”
Despite scoring five goals in 17 appearances across all competitions this season, Felix has started just three of Chelsea’s 10 Premier League matches. Often deployed on the wing rather than his preferred No. 10 position, the Portuguese international has struggled to make an impact and is reportedly frustrated with his current role.
Balancing Competition and Squad Rotation
Chelsea’s management is aware of Felix’s dissatisfaction with his limited opportunities, but his long-term future at the club remains uncertain. Fans hope he will get more chances to demonstrate his value in the second half of the campaign, particularly as Chelsea looks to recover from their recent slump.
Jamie Carragher’s preseason concerns about Felix’s fit within Chelsea’s system now seem prescient. Carragher questioned how Felix would secure a regular spot given the strong competition for the playmaker role. Cole Palmer’s outstanding performances have solidified his place in the team, making it difficult for Felix to challenge him for the No. 10 position.
Maresca’s hesitation to use Felix as a substitute has drawn criticism, with many calling for bolder decisions and improved rotation. As Chelsea navigates this difficult period, integrating talented but underused players like Felix could be crucial to revitalizing the squad and returning to winning ways.
