Former Chelsea midfielder John Obi Mikel has launched a scathing attack on Arsenal supporters following the club’s painful UEFA Champions League final defeat to Paris Saint-Germain on Saturday, describing the Gunners’ fanbase as “delusional” while insisting Chelsea remain London’s true kings of Europe.
Arsenal’s dream of winning a first-ever Champions League title ended in heartbreak at the Budapest Arena as PSG secured their second consecutive European crown. The French giants prevailed 4-3 on penalties after a fiercely contested final finished 1-1 following regulation and extra time.
The defeat extended Arsenal’s long wait for continental glory despite another impressive European campaign under Mikel Arteta. The North London club had hoped to finally erase the memories of their 2006 final loss to Barcelona and secure the most prestigious trophy in club football.
In the aftermath of the final, Chelsea’s social media team posted a cryptic message that many interpreted as a reminder of the Blues’ European success compared to their London rivals. The post quickly sparked debate among supporters of both clubs on social media.
While some observers felt Chelsea should have shown sympathy toward Arsenal following the defeat, Mikel had no such sentiments and instead praised the post while doubling down on his criticism of the Gunners and their supporters.
Mikel Defends Chelsea’s European Legacy
Speaking after the final, the former Nigeria international made it clear that there is no need of apology from Chelsea’s post, arguing that the Blues remain the only London club to have conquered Europe. “Amazing post. “Never say sorry. Never say sorry to Arsenal. I mean, this trophy here {Champions League}, oh wow, amazing trophy. Arsenal cannot touch this trophy. They cannot touch it,” Mikel said.
Mikel, who spent more than a decade at Stamford Bridge and won numerous trophies with the club, including the UEFA Champions League in 2012, believes Chelsea’s achievements on the European stage give them bragging rights over every other club in the capital. “And we are the only team in London that has won the Champions League,” he added.
The former Super Eagles captain was a key member of the Chelsea side that stunned Bayern Munich in their own stadium to lift the club’s first Champions League title in 2012.
He later helped the Blues win the Europa League in 2013, adding to a trophy-laden spell that also included two Premier League titles, four FA Cups and a League Cup.
Arsenal’s European Frustration Continues
Mikel did not stop at celebrating Chelsea’s success. The 38-year-old also aimed a dig at Arsenal’s inability to get over the line in major European competitions despite consistently challenging among Europe’s elite clubs. “But it’s amazing to see Arsenal again, do what they do best. You know, they always find a way to make sure they bottle it, and they did on Saturday,” he added.
The former midfielder then turned his attention to Arsenal supporters, delivering his most controversial remarks of the interview.
“So I absolutely do not like Arsenal and the Arsenal fans. The Arsenal fans, they are the worst fans. Delusional. They’re delusional.”
John Obi Mikel
Arsenal remain one of England’s most successful domestic clubs, but European football’s biggest prize has continued to elude them.
Their closest attempt came in 2006 when they reached the Champions League final before losing 2-1 to Barcelona in France. Since then, the Gunners have endured several disappointments in Europe, including exits in the knockout stages and defeats in other continental competitions.
Despite the recent setback, Arsenal’s progress under Arteta has restored optimism among supporters who believe the club is edging closer to ending its long wait for European glory.
However, Mikel believes Chelsea will soon return to challenge for major honours themselves after struggling last season where they missed out on European football qualification.
“But we, Chelsea, we are the best. Our team. We’re going to be back next season, Chelsea. We’re going to be back next season. We’ve had a poor season, but next season we’re going to be back.”
John Obi Mikel
His comments are likely to intensify the rivalry between the two London clubs, with Arsenal supporters certain to take exception to his assessment as debate continues following another painful Champions League final defeat.
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