Former Blues midfielder reignites London rivalry, warns Arsenal face “biggest disaster” if they bottle Premier League race

Former Chelsea star John Obi Mikel has reignited the fierce London rivalry, declaring that no true Chelsea fan or ex-player would ever support Arsenal in a Premier League title race.

Speaking on his Obi One Podcast, Mikel was blunt as the title battle heats up, insisting that the deep-rooted hostility between the two clubs makes any form of support unthinkable.

“No Chelsea ex-player or fan will ever want Arsenal to win the Premier League,” he said.

Hitting back at criticism from Arsenal supporters who labeled his stance as petty, Mikel doubled down, saying the rivalry during his playing days was intense and often spilled beyond the pitch.

“To all Arsenal fans saying I’m too harsh — I’m Chelsea, take it personally. I don’t want you to win it,” he said. “Back then, the rivalry was crazy. We didn’t just compete, we clashed. Even outside football, we didn’t mix — sometimes it even led to fights among people around us.”

Mikel didn’t stop there. He issued a stark warning to Mikel Arteta’s side, claiming this season could define their legacy — or haunt them.

According to him, failing to secure the title now would go down as one of Arsenal’s biggest-ever collapses.

“If Arsenal don’t win it this season, it could be the biggest disaster in Premier League history for them,” he said.

He pointed to their recent slip-up as a turning point in the race, suggesting they had let control of the title chase slip at a crucial moment.

“They had the chance to go 12 points clear, but they took their foot off the gas. Now it’s down to six, and Manchester City are right back in it.”

Mikel also questioned Arsenal’s current form, warning that Arteta’s side looks uncertain and short of ideas at a critical stage.

“Right now, they look out of sorts. They don’t seem to know what to do, and Arteta looks like he’s run out of ideas,” he added.