Former Chelsea midfielder John Obi Mikel has shared his thoughts on Manchester United’s current struggles, pointing to midfield as a key area that needs urgent attention.
Speaking about United’s squad, Mikel believes the club must start planning for life beyond Casemiro, whose performances have come under growing scrutiny this season.
Mikel highlighted Brighton midfielder Carlos Baleba as a player United should seriously consider. He praised the young midfielder’s energy and quality, suggesting he could bring the balance United currently lack in the middle of the pitch.
According to Mikel, the Premier League demands intensity and physical strength week in, week out. While he showed respect for Casemiro’s achievements, he admitted that the league quickly exposes players who can no longer keep up with the pace.
Mikel stressed that replacing Casemiro with a strong holding midfielder would be a smart move if United want to move forward.
The former Nigeria international also spoke about the wider issues at Old Trafford following the changes under Jim Ratcliffe’s INEOS ownership. Despite heavy spending in the transfer market and changes in management, Mikel feels the rebuild must go deeper.
He suggested that responsibility should not always fall on the manager, adding that the club must honestly assess whether the current players are good enough to represent Manchester United.
Mikel did acknowledge recent signings such as Bryan Mbeumo and Matheus Cunha, describing them as positive additions. However, he believes more reinforcements are needed, particularly in defence, if United are serious about competing again.
Looking ahead to the rest of the season, Mikel offered a realistic prediction. He does not expect Manchester United to finish in the top four but feels a place in Europe would still count as progress.
Based on their inconsistency, Mikel predicts United could end the season between eighth and tenth place as the club continues its rebuilding process.
