Moises Caicedo’s rise at Chelsea has been one of the standout stories of the 2025/26 campaign, and former Blues midfielder John Obi Mikel believes the Ecuadorian is breaking new ground in a role once defined by legends.
Signed for £100 million from Brighton in 2023, Caicedo arrived at Stamford Bridge under immense pressure. His early months were difficult, sparking criticism that Chelsea had overspent. But over the past year, the 23-year-old has blossomed into a dominant presence, proving why the club invested so heavily.
This season he has reached new heights, not only excelling defensively but also adding consistent goals to his game. That attacking edge, Mikel says, sets him apart from the likes of himself, N’Golo Kanté, and Claude Makelele — all midfield icons at the club but players who rarely found the net.
Mikel: “Caicedo is scoring goals — that’s something I never did”
Speaking on the Obi One Podcast, Mikel praised Caicedo’s mentality, resilience, and ability to now influence games in the final third.
“We have to talk about him again, Caicedo, how good is he. From his first game people said ‘what a waste of money,’ but the kid knows who he is. After every game, even when he had the worst games, he knelt down and prayed. He believed in something, and it’s good he kept that belief. He’s been absolutely brilliant. He’s scoring goals — that’s something I never did, something Claude Makelele never did.” — John Obi Mikel
Caicedo has already scored six times in Chelsea colours, including three this season. By contrast, Makelele netted only twice in 217 appearances.
His latest strike, a stunning opener from distance against Liverpool, underlined his growing confidence. Although Cody Gakpo equalised, a late winner from Estevao Willian secured three points for Chelsea and further spotlighted Caicedo’s influence.
Neville: “Best midfielder in the Premier League”
The plaudits for Caicedo extend beyond Chelsea circles. Gary Neville went as far as declaring him the league’s top midfielder during his Sky Sports podcast.
“He’s the best midfield player in the league at this moment in time. I think I’m comfortable saying that. Gravenberch last season, Declan Rice and Rodri in recent years, but right now Caicedo is the best and he’s performing like that.” — Gary Neville
Stats snapshot – Moises Caicedo 2025/26
| Stat (2025/26) | Moises Caicedo |
|---|---|
| Appearances | 9 |
| Goals | 3 |
| Total Chelsea Goals | 6 |
| Assists | 0 |
source: sofascore match data – 6 October 2025
The numbers highlight how Caicedo is rewriting expectations for Chelsea’s holding midfielder, combining the defensive solidity of past legends with an attacking contribution that few anticipated.
Analyst verdict: A complete midfielder in the making
FootballPlace analyst John William says Caicedo’s transformation is redefining the Chelsea midfield role.
“Caicedo was brought in to shield the defence, but he’s now evolving into a two-way force. His work rate and positioning echo Makelele and Mikel, yet his ability to step up with decisive goals gives Chelsea a new weapon. If he maintains this level, he could shape the next era of the Premier League’s midfield battles.”
Key insights
- Caicedo has scored six goals for Chelsea, three in the current season.
- Mikel says goal scoring sets him apart from past Chelsea greats.
- Makelele netted just twice in 217 Blues appearances.
- Gary Neville now rates Caicedo as the best midfielder in the Premier League.
- His Liverpool strike exemplifies his confidence and evolution.
What’s next for Caicedo and Chelsea?
With Chelsea chasing domestic and European honours, Caicedo’s form could prove decisive. His goals are already making the difference in tight fixtures, and his all-round game is winning him widespread acclaim.
For manager Enzo Maresca, the challenge is to keep him fit and firing across a demanding season. If Caicedo continues at this level, the £100m fee once viewed with scepticism may soon look like a bargain.
👉 Do you agree with John Obi Mikel and Gary Neville — is Moises Caicedo now the Premier League’s best midfielder?
1 Comment (last comment by Adem)
First read message
By Adem 7 Oct 2025 19:02
John was never this good... But in his position I think Kante had a few stunners as well, Maka not.
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