Former Chelsea midfielder John Obi Mikel has dismissed Cesc Fàbregas as a realistic option for the Chelsea managerial role, insisting it is still too early for the Spaniard to take charge at Stamford Bridge.
Chelsea are currently on the lookout for a new head coach following the dismissal of Liam Rosenior, with several candidates being assessed as the club carefully evaluates its next move.
Speaking on his Obi One Podcast, Mikel praised Fàbregas for his progress at Italian club Como but stressed that the Chelsea job would come too soon in his managerial journey.
“I think for me, it’d be too early for Fabregas. I like Fabregas and we can all see the success he’s having with Como in the Italian league, but I think it’s a bit too early. Give him a couple more seasons to establish himself and gain more experience.”
Instead, Mikel strongly endorsed former teammate Filipe Luís as his preferred candidate, highlighting the Brazilian’s tactical structure and early managerial impact at Flamengo.
Mikel pointed to Luís’ tactical identity and disciplined approach, especially in major competitions, as evidence of his managerial potential.
“On Filipe Luis, he is a fantastic manager and his team played fantastic football in the Club World Cup and had an objective of how they wanted to play.”
“There was a clear structure, playing with purpose, that’s how you know someone can become a top manager.”
While acknowledging Filipe Luís still lacks long-term experience, Mikel said his early work already shows promise.
“Maybe he doesn’t have the experience right now, but from the job he did with Flamengo and the way his team plays, there is something to be excited about.”
“If they go with any of them, I’ll probably say Filipe Luis.”
Chelsea, currently led on an interim basis by Calum McFarlane until the end of the season, are not rushing their decision. The club is also believed to be considering other unnamed candidates as part of their ongoing search for a permanent manager.
