John Obi Mikel, a former captain of the Super Eagles, has criticized Arsenal’s play this season, claiming that their 2-1 victory over Chelsea did not satisfy him.
In Sunday’s Premier League rivalry, Arsenal won all three points, but Mikel Obi was not persuaded. Mikel Arteta was accused by the former Chelsea midfielder of relying too much on set pieces and not utilizing his attacking potential.
Mikel claimed that the Premier League game lacked the energy and passion he used to enjoy in London derbies in an interview with the Obi One Podcast.
“These are matches I used to look forward to playing in when you enter derbies because they are full of excitement and joy,” Mikel said.
There should be a notable demonstration of inventiveness and promise when I watch these local derbies, rivalry games that should produce a lot.
We used to like the whole experience. But it was difficult to watch the game the other day. I found it painful to see.
Mikel claimed Arsenal’s performance lacked flare and attacking inventiveness despite the victory.
“One would expect to see significantly more action from the teams, so there wasn’t much happening,” he remarked.
“Yes, they won the game, but it was hard to watch Arsenal because they lacked originality.” There was absolutely no excitement.
The 2013 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) champion also criticized Arsenal’s offensive strategy, citing what he sees as an excessive reliance on dead-ball scenarios.
Mikel Obi remarked, “You have all these creative players that you have in the team, that you brought to the club.”
“Despite spending a significant sum of money to acquire these players, you are still unable to win games without set pieces.
To win, they have just used corner kicks and set pieces. This season, they have scored sixteen goals from corner kicks. Without corner kicks, I don’t think Arsenal will win games.
