Former Chelsea Star John Obi Mikel Yet to Heal From 2007 Brawl With Arsenal’s African Stars

 

Vows to switch off phone if Arsenal F.C. lift the Premier League trophy

Opinion | Oriontimes News Editorial Board

Former Chelsea F.C. star John Obi Mikel has once again stirred football fans, joking that he would switch off his phone if Arsenal F.C. lift the Premier League through corner-kick goals. 

While said in jest, the comment revives memories of one of the fiercest London derbies of the 2000s: the explosive 2007 Football League Cup Final. Arsenal midfielder Abou Diaby accidentally struck Chelsea captain John Terry in the face with a high boot while attempting to clear the ball.

The incident sparked a chaotic brawl on the pitch. John Obi Mikel was at the center of the melee and was the only player shown a red card as tempers boiled over. While several Arsenal players were involved in pushing and shoving, no Arsenal player received a dismissal.

Nearly two decades later, Mikel’s remark shows that some rivalries never fully fade. During Chelsea’s peak years, he shared the dressing room with African greats Didier Drogba, Michael Essien, and Salomon Kalou, players who constantly clashed with Arsenal in high-stakes London derbies.

Nowadays, even draws against Arsenal, whether by smaller sides or elite teams are cause for celebration, a reflection of the team’s growth and progress under Mikel Arteta.

Mikel Obi should also remember that he played alongside many black stars at Chelsea, most of whom arguably embodied the spirit and quality of the Blues better than anyone else on the pitch.

Times have changed. Arsenal have reemerged as a Premier League force, while Chelsea continue to navigate a rebuilding phase. But for fans, and apparently for Mikel, the old grudges linger. Fierce battles, pride, and rivalry often outlast even the players’ careers.