“Get rid of him or replace him” “He will cost us top4” – Mikel Obi cries out, warns Enzo Maresca to replace Chelsea star despite 3-1 win over Wolves

Chelsea’s victory over Wolves provided much-needed relief to Stamford Bridge faithful, as the Blues climbed back into the Premier League’s top four with a 3-1 triumph. However, the post-match atmosphere was not without controversy, as club legend Mikel Obi delivered a scathing critique of goalkeeper Robert Sánchez, urging head coach Enzo Maresca to take immediate action.

The match itself showcased Chelsea’s resilience, with goals from unexpected contributors leading the charge. Tosin Adarabioyo opened his Premier League account with a clinical finish, while Marc Cucurella added to his domestic tally, ensuring the Blues held control for most of the game. Noni Madueke later capitalized on a defensive lapse to extend the advantage, further cementing Chelsea’s dominance.

Despite the victory, the first half presented moments of concern for the Blues. Wolves, spurred on by Chelsea’s defensive lapses, looked threatening and managed to draw level just before halftime. The equalizer stemmed from a mistake by Sánchez, whose failed attempt to catch a dangerous corner gifted Matt Doherty a simple tap-in.

Mikel Obi, watching as an analyst, was quick to voice his frustrations. “Sánchez is actually an embarrassment; I’m sorry,” the former midfielder remarked. “Had nothing to do all half and fluffed his lines at the first opportunity. Wolves were gifted a goal from nowhere. Ridiculous.”

Sánchez’s error against Wolves marked his fourth mistake directly leading to a goal this season. Such statistics have fueled concerns about his reliability, particularly as Chelsea aim to solidify their Champions League qualification for next season. Obi’s criticism did not stop at the Spaniard’s performance; he also called for Maresca to act decisively.

“He will cost us top four if he continues this way,” Obi warned. “It’s better we have a good backup or, better still, call back Petrovic to help us.” The suggestion to recall Djordje Petrovic, Chelsea’s second-choice goalkeeper, highlights growing frustration within the fanbase regarding Sánchez’s inconsistency.

Enzo Maresca, who has implemented a high-possession, attack-oriented system at Chelsea, now faces a conundrum. While Sánchez has been integral in building attacks from the back, his mistakes could undermine the team’s progress. Fans and analysts alike are questioning whether the manager will prioritize defensive solidity over tactical preferences in the coming weeks.

Obi’s concerns resonate with many supporters, especially considering Chelsea’s precarious position in the league table. With Arsenal, Manchester City, and Liverpool continuing their strong campaigns, the race for top four has become increasingly competitive. Dropped points due to unforced errors could prove costly for the Blues as they navigate a challenging second half of the season.

The January transfer window presents an opportunity for Chelsea to address their goalkeeping dilemma. While Maresca has hinted at possible reinforcements, the urgency surrounding Sánchez’s situation may accelerate those plans. Whether through recalling Petrovic or exploring external options, the club must act swiftly to avoid further slip-ups.

As Chelsea celebrated their win over Wolves, the underlying narrative focused on Sánchez’s performance. For a team with ambitions of returning to Europe’s elite competition, such inconsistencies cannot be overlooked. The coming weeks will reveal whether Maresca heeds Obi’s warning or places his faith in Sánchez to bounce back.

For now, the victory at Stamford Bridge offers a bittersweet reminder of Chelsea’s potential and their vulnerabilities. While the Blues remain in contention for a top-four finish, the pressure to eliminate costly errors grows with every match. The spotlight, for better or worse, remains firmly fixed on Robert Sánchez.