Former Chelsea midfielder, John Mikel Obi, has taken aim at Argentina international Enzo Fernandez following remarks the Chelsea star made about his future and a possible move to Real Madrid.
Fernandez, who joined Chelsea from Benfica and has become a key midfielder for the club, recently stoked transfer speculation by saying he’d love to live in Madrid, calling it “a beautiful city” that reminded him of Buenos Aires.
He also spoke positively about the idea of playing in Spain, comments that were widely interpreted as a hint he could be attracted to a summer move to the Spanish giants.
Real Madrid are reportedly keeping tabs on the 25‑year‑old World Cup winner as a potential midfield target ahead of the summer window.
But Mikel, who starred for Chelsea between 2006 and 2017, has publicly criticised Fernandez for openly entertaining talk of leaving Stamford Bridge.
Speaking to AS, the former Nigeria international said defenders of the Chelsea badge should show greater loyalty.
“This is Chelsea, not a stepping stone to another team. If your heart is already in Madrid, you shouldn’t wear the blue jersey,” Mikel said.
“At Chelsea, we played for the coat of arms, not for a future transfer…”
Mikel’s remarks underline the growing tension between supporters and players amid swirling transfer rumours, with Chelsea striving for stability following managerial changes and mixed results this season.
