“I always want to see them starting in XI” – John Obi Mikel names the most four Chelsea players that must start in their strongest XI
Thank you for reading this post, don't forget to subscribe!Enzo Maresca’s Core Four: John Obi Mikel Names Chelsea’s Essential Players
Chelsea’s Premier League season under head coach Enzo Maresca has shown a clear commitment to consistency. While he has rotated players for cup competitions, Maresca’s core squad in the league has remained largely unchanged, with several players becoming near-permanent fixtures. Former Chelsea star John Obi Mikel recently highlighted the four players he believes are essential to Chelsea’s success: Levi Colwill, Wesley Fofana, Moises Caicedo, and Cole Palmer.
Maresca’s Premier League Line-Up Strategy
Maresca’s approach to Chelsea’s Premier League campaign has been marked by his reliance on a select few players, particularly in defense and midfield. Though Chelsea has depth, the Italian manager has chosen to focus on certain players to build a consistent lineup. This has helped establish a strong foundation for the team’s current run in the league, a strategy that seems to have resonated with both fans and former players alike.
According to Mikel, Maresca’s decision to keep Levi Colwill and Wesley Fofana as his primary central defenders has brought stability to Chelsea’s backline. In fact, the duo has started 10 of the first 11 Premier League games, with only Fofana’s suspension preventing a perfect record. This consistency has made the Colwill-Fofana partnership a solid backbone for Chelsea’s defensive unit.
Caicedo and Palmer: The Heart of Midfield and Attack
Mikel also spoke highly of Moises Caicedo, who has started every league match this season and is seen as an emerging leader within the team. Caicedo’s revitalized presence in midfield has anchored Chelsea’s play, with his commanding performances drawing praise from fans and establishing him as a potential captain figure. His influence, as Mikel noted on The Obi One Podcast, makes him a vital component of the Chelsea squad.
In attack, Cole Palmer has proven to be Chelsea’s creative spark. Mikel regards Palmer as a talisman for the team, bringing flair and vision to Chelsea’s play and building on his impressive form from last season. As Chelsea’s primary playmaker, Palmer has been instrumental in driving the team forward, establishing himself as an essential figure for Maresca.
Building for a Top-Four Finish
Despite Chelsea’s improvements, there’s room for further growth. Defensive errors have cost them at times, and there’s a need for a more ruthless edge in front of goal. Pundit Stephen Warnock even suggested that Chelsea consider signing a world-class center-back to add experience and bolster their defense. However, with players like Caicedo, Palmer, Colwill, and Fofana leading the way, Chelsea’s prospects look positive as they aim for a top-four finish.
The Path Forward
As Chelsea continues to refine its form, Mikel’s endorsement of the core four highlights a broader belief that the right mix of consistency and quality can help the team reach its objectives. With Maresca’s reliance on these players, Chelsea’s supporters can be optimistic about the road ahead in the Premier League season.
