Could John Obi Mikel Be On His Way Out Of Chelsea?

Could John Obi Mikel Be On His Way Out Of Chelsea?

John Obi Mikel arrived at Stamford Bridge back in 2006 and has somewhat been a regular these last 7 years, despite the flurry of managers who have come and gone from Chelsea during that period. He has been a mainstay in the midfield, particularly in the previous season as he cemented his place in the heart of midfield.

Despite 7 years in London, he is still not the most loved player at the club and has at times struggled to win over the fans. Also, the recent return of Jose Mourinho has thrown his Chelsea future in doubt, as the Portugese manager does not see Mikel as part of his immediate plans. This has given rise to rumors that he could possibly be on the move in the coming few weeks. Mourinho has also started looking at defensive midfielders, which has all but implied that his days at the Bridge are numbered.

He has been linked to Turkish giants Galatasaray, who are looking to boost their defensive midfield area with the capture of Mikel. They want to sign him and reunite him with former Chelsea player Didier Drogba. Galatasaray are hoping that Drogba’s presence at the club will work in their favor and will convince Mikel to join them.

Metro now reports that the media caught up with Mikel and asked him about the current situation, to which he expressed doubt over his Chelsea future. He said, “‘I have a four-year contract with Chelsea but you know, in football you can never guess,”

“One day you are here, the next day you might leave.”

With Mikel showing uncertainty about his future, is this a big hint that he is perhaps angling for an exit from Chelsea? Will he join Galatasaray in the next few weeks, or will Mourinho have a sudden change of heart and want him to stay put at Chelsea? One thing is for certain, that the London club are set for a busy summer now that Mourinho is back at the helm. It would be a shame to see Mikel leave as he is an understated player who goes about his business in a quiet, efficient manner rarely putting a foot wrong.