Chelsea Legend John Obi Mikel Slams Arsenal Tactics Under Mikel Arteta

Chelsea legend John Obi Mikel criticises Arsenal tactics, claiming Arteta’s set-piece focus is limiting stars like Saka and Ødegaard.

John Obi Mikel launched a fierce criticism of Mikel Arteta after Arsenal’s 1-1 Champions League draw with Bayer Leverkusen, claiming the Gunners rely too heavily on set-pieces and accusing the club of pushing the limits of the rules.

Speaking on talkSPORT, the former Chelsea midfielder argued that Arsenal’s success this season comes largely from corner routines rather than open-play creativity.

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John Obi Mikel criticism erupted just hours after the European clash in Germany.

“When I watch Arsenal play right now, they depend solely on corner kicks,” Mikel said.

“You’ve spent almost a billion, Mikel Arteta, and you’re telling me the only way you can win games is through corner kicks? It’s ridiculous.”

‘Illegal’ Set-Piece Claims Spark Controversy

Mikel went even further by suggesting Arsenal’s approach at set-pieces crosses the line.

According to the former Nigeria international, the Premier League should review some of the blocking tactics used during corners.

“For me, every time I watch them during the corner kicks, what they do during set pieces, it’s illegal,” he said.

“You can’t do that. They’re impeding the goalkeeper and holding players. The referee should see it and VAR should pick it up.”

Mikel referenced an incident during Arsenal’s recent clash with Chelsea, claiming Declan Rice appeared to block an opponent from jumping during a corner.

He insisted such tactics should not be allowed to influence matches.

Four Arsenal Stars Named in Criticism

The former Chelsea midfielder also argued that Arsenal’s creative attackers are being restricted by the tactical approach.

He singled out four players he believes are suffering the most:

• Bukayo Saka
• Gabriel Martinelli
• Eberechi Eze
• Martin Ødegaard

“The creativity they have and the potential they have — it’s all gone out of the window,” Mikel claimed.

“We don’t see Bukayo Saka, Gabriel Martinelli, Eberechi Eze or Martin Ødegaard expressing themselves because they depend solely on corners.”

According to Mikel, Arsenal’s attacking stars should play with greater freedom rather than relying on structured set-piece routines.

Despite the criticism, Arsenal remain firmly in control of the Premier League title race.

Arteta’s side sit seven points clear at the top while also competing in the Champions League, keeping alive hopes of an historic quadruple.

Set-pieces have indeed become a major weapon for Arsenal this season, with the club scoring several crucial goals from corners and dead-ball situations.

However, supporters argue that Arteta’s tactical discipline has transformed the Gunners into one of Europe’s most efficient teams.

Debate Over Arsenal’s Style Continues

The debate around Arsenal’s playing style has intensified in recent weeks.

Several pundits and rival figures have questioned whether the Gunners rely too heavily on structured tactics rather than attacking flair.

Arteta, however, has consistently defended his team’s approach, focusing on results and competitive consistency.

Following the draw against Bayer Leverkusen, the Arsenal manager admitted his side lacked sharpness in certain moments but praised their mentality for fighting back through Kai Havertz’s late penalty.

With a crucial Premier League clash against Everton approaching and the Champions League second leg against Leverkusen looming at the Emirates Stadium, the focus now shifts back to results.

As long as Arsenal keep winning, Arteta’s methods may continue to divide opinion — but they are undeniably keeping the Gunners firmly on track for major silverware.

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