Former Chelsea midfielder John Obi Mikel has mocked Arsenal supporters amid a debate involving Real Madrid forward Vinicius Junior.
Mikel questioned Arsenal fans’ criticism of Vinicius, pointing to the club’s lack of UEFA Champions League success as part of his response to the ongoing discussion.
The former Nigeria international made the remarks while weighing in on the debate surrounding the Brazilian forward and his standing among Europe’s elite players.
Mikel’s comments have added a fresh layer to the football debate, particularly given his history with Chelsea and the longstanding rivalry between Chelsea and Arsenal.
“I don’t know what the Arsenal fans were expecting,” Obi Mikel said.
“You win the league after 22 years and then you all of a sudden think: that is it, you have arrived, you are one of the big boys again. No, you are not.
“They have just been humbled because I said it: there is no way Vinicius Junior is leaving Real Madrid to go to Arsenal, a club that has won one title in 22 years.
“This guy wins titles; he’s won lots of titles at Real Madrid. He wants to win titles season after season, the Champions League, La Liga, competing year after year and winning those titles.
“He’s tasted what it feels like to win the Champions League. Arsenal have never won the Champions League. Zero,” he said.
The former midfielder also reminded Arsenal supporters of Chelsea’s European pedigree, using the contrast to challenge their criticism of Vinicius.
The exchange comes amid renewed discussions among Premier League fans over Vinicius’ performances, reputation and place among the world’s leading attackers.
