Arsenal supporters are applauding a television presenter for how they handled John Obi Mikel’s criticism of Mikel Arteta following yet another season without a trophy. Despite likely finishing second in the Premier League for a third year running, only Manchester City stand a chance of overtaking them.
Arteta is facing growing pressure to deliver major success, having only won the FA Cup during his first season, with no triumphs in the domestic cups or Champions League since. While Mikel appeared to be intensifying the criticism, beIN Sports presenter Nicky Crosby delivered a sharp comeback that effectively silenced him.
Presenter’s £1 Billion Comeback Leaves Mikel Speechless
The former Chelsea star couldn’t help but laugh when hit with the blunt reality check.
During beIN Sports’ Sunday coverage, Mikel and ex-Manchester United striker Dwight Yorke discussed whether a new leader in Arsenal’s locker room could be the key to finally winning silverware. Mikel, one of the Premier League’s most decorated African players, pointed to Arteta’s heavy spending and the lack of trophies as troubling.
In response, Crosby highlighted Chelsea’s recent transfer splurge:
“He’s spent £700 million over six years. You’ve spent a billion in one season. That’s 34 players—28 bought, the rest on loan. When you break it down, it’s really not that much.”
Mikel countered by saying Chelsea were in a transitional phase, regularly changing managers who needed their own squads. However, fans online weren’t buying it and quickly praised Crosby for shutting down his argument.
One fan said: “She dismantled his point in under 20 seconds,” while another commented: “She roasted him.”
Others said she “exposed his bias,” with one remarking: “Six years of transition after spending £1 billion—unbelievable.”