Chelsea legend Mikel Obi approves £40million Garnacho coup: 'He does everything right'

Former Chelsea midfielder and Nigerian football icon John Mikel Obi has voiced strong approval of Chelsea’s £40 million signing of Alejandro Garnacho, hailing the young winger as a future superstar for the Blues.

Garnacho completed his move to Stamford Bridge from Manchester United, where his playing time had diminished under manager Ruben Amorim, prompting the transfer. 

Chelsea confirmed Garnacho’s signing after the 21-year-old was spotted in the stands during their 2-0 home victory over Fulham, with the Argentina international committing to a contract until 2032.

Mikel, in a recent podcast, expressed excitement about Chelsea’s coup but acknowledged Garnacho’s recent struggles and the high expectations placed on him at Chelsea following the hefty fee.

“It's not a snip. It's coming from Manchester United. You guys have been absolutely shite, man. I'm excited about it - I’m excited about him coming into the football club,” Mikel said.

He admitted uncertainty about the exact reasons behind Garnacho’s reduced role at United but praised the youngster’s direct playing style. 

“I’ve always liked Garnacho. The way he plays, he’s very direct when he has the ball. Sometimes, though, I think his final delivery is not that great. He does everything right, but when it comes to the final pass or finishing, he just needs to find a way to sort that part of his game out.”

Mikel believes that if Garnacho can improve his finishing and final actions, he could become an exceptional player for Chelsea. He also highlighted the pressure accompanying the £40 million investment.

“He’s coming into Chelsea to prove himself, to show why they paid that amount. Forty million is a huge sum. He has to step up now. But I’m sure Enzo Maresca, if there’s one manager who can get the best out of him, it’s Maresca - because he knows how to coach and develop young players. Maybe that’s exactly what Garnacho needs.”

Before joining Chelsea, Garnacho had been training separately from Manchester United’s main squad as his future was sorted out. 

Over 93 Premier League appearances, he scored 16 goals, offering Chelsea an additional dynamic attacking option as they aim to bolster their squad under Maresca’s guidance.

Mikel’s endorsement sets a positive tone for Garnacho’s Stamford Bridge career, emphasising belief in the Argentine’s potential to thrive and justify the club’s investment.