Unsettled John Obi Mikel wants Chelsea exit

The Nigeria midfielder has admitted that he is unsettled at Stamford Bridge

According to reports in the English media, John Obi Mikel is looking for a move away from Chelsea this summer.

Sky Sports understand that the Nigeria international is unhappy with his lack of playing time at Stamford Bridge and is keen to capitalise on the reported interest in his services.


While Chelsea are yet to comment publicly on the future of their midfield stalwart, these latest reports only add to the impression that the Super Eagle will be ending his nine-year tenure with the Pensioners this summer.

Al Ain of the United Arab Emirates have been heavily linked with the international, with Ghana striker Asamoah Gyan—who moved to Abu Dhabi in 2011—claiming that he believed Mikel’s transfer would ‘definitely’ happen.

The striker also backed the midfielder’s move and indicated that he believes the 28-year-old would thrive in the UAE Pro-League.

However, Al Ain may face competition for the midfielder’s services from Fenerbahce, with the Express recently reporting that the Turkish giants were keen on the Nigeria star.

It remains to be seen whether Mikel’s rumoured unhappiness at Stamford Bridge—where he made only six league starts last term—would attract other potential suitors to make an approach for his services.

The midfielder’s dissatisfaction grows from the fact that Nemanja Matic and Cesc Fabregas have nailed down the two starting berths in the centre of Jose Mourinho’s team, while tertiary competition is provided by the likes of Ramires, Kurt Zouma and the emerging Ruben Loftus-Cheek.

His anxiety may also have been prompted by rumours that the Blues—who won the title last term—are looking to recruit more central midfielders this summer.

Mourinho has admitted that he is in the market for a player who can operate in this position, with the likes of Alex Song, Axel Witsel and Paul Pogba all being linked to Stamford Bridge.