EPL: ‘I don’t understand’ – Obi Mikel names player that shouldn’t start for Man United again
Former Chelsea player John Obi Mikel criticized Manchester United for continuing to rely on defender Harry Maguire, asserting that Maguire has not proven to be a dependable center-back.
Mikel’s comments come after Manchester United’s 2-0 loss to newly promoted Hull City in their opening Premier League match of the season. He urged head coach Michael Carrick to consider removing Maguire from the starting lineup if the team hopes to succeed this season.
During an appearance on The Obi One Podcast, Mikel expressed his concerns over Maguire’s role within the squad. “When your primary center-back is Harry Maguire, you have an issue,” he said. “He was never suited to be a Manchester United player; he does not fit the system or the ethos of the club. It is astonishing that he has remained there for seven or eight seasons. How has that occurred? I cannot comprehend it.”
Mikel acknowledged that while Maguire could serve as a useful option off the bench, he should not be a starter ahead of other available defenders such as Lisandro Martinez, Matthijs de Ligt, and Leny Yoro. “Is he suitable as a squad player due to his experience? Yes. But he should not be starting matches, nor should he be your primary center-back,” Mikel said.
He also highlighted concerns regarding Maguire’s playing style, stating that the experienced defender is too slow with the ball and does not maintain the required tempo during matches.
Looking ahead, Carrick and his team will attempt to regroup as they prepare to face Ipswich Town, another newly promoted side, in their first home match of the season on Sunday.
