John Obi Mikel slams Chelsea over £125m Enzo Fernandez transfer mistake

John Obi Mikel has criticised Chelsea for failing to replace Enzo Fernandez following his £125million move to Manchester City, claiming the decision is contributing directly to the club’s defensive problems.

Chelsea allowed Fernandez to leave on deadline day but were unable to secure another midfielder before the transfer window closed.

A proposed move for Monaco youngster Lamine Camara collapsed at the final stage, leaving Xabi Alonso short of options in a crucial area of the pitch.

Speaking on the Obi One podcast, Mikel believes Chelsea should have been better prepared for Fernandez’s departure.

“That is one position that the club has failed to strengthen during the transfer window. We failed,” Mikel said.

“We knew Enzo Fernandez wanted to leave the football club. We knew for so long he wanted to go.”

Chelsea have remained dangerous going forward, scoring 18 goals across their opening six matches.

Their defensive record tells a very different story.

Alonso’s side have conceded 12 goals during the same period, with their recent 2-2 draw against Hull City further highlighting their inability to control matches defensively.

Mikel believes Chelsea’s problems cannot simply be blamed on the back four.

“Yes, we got £125m sitting in the bank, but we failed to bring in another player and that’s why we are suffering right now,” he explained.

“You need at least two holding players to be able to shield and protect the back-four in that system.”

The situation has been made significantly worse by Moises Caicedo’s injury.

The Ecuador international has managed only 14 minutes this season because of a calf problem, leaving Alonso without his most important defensive midfielder.

Mikel believes pairing a fit Caicedo with Romeo Lavia or Reece James would immediately provide Chelsea with greater protection.

“As soon as he comes back, I think we’ll be a much better team. There’s absolutely no question about it,” Mikel said.

He particularly highlighted Caicedo’s stamina, energy and ability to cover multiple positions and break up opposition attacks.

Until he returns, however, Alonso must find another way to prevent Chelsea’s midfield and defence from being exposed.

Chelsea travel to Brentford on Friday night with Alonso under pressure to improve his side’s defensive structure. Caicedo’s availability could prove crucial as Chelsea look to address the midfield weakness highlighted by Mikel.