Former Chelsea and Nigeria midfielder John Obi Mikel has offered a heartfelt perspective on Liverpool’s recent struggles, urging critics to show understanding and linking the team’s dip in form directly to the emotional aftermath of Diogo Jota’s tragic death.
Speaking on his popular podcast, “The Obi One Podcast,” Mikel directly addressed the recent criticism aimed at the Merseyside club and its star forward, Mohamed Salah. He suggested that the psychological impact of losing a teammate in such a devastating manner is being underestimated.
“I heard Salah was very close to Jota,” Mikel stated. “He doesn’t look like himself, he looks like a shadow of his former self.”
The former Champions League winner called for a more compassionate assessment of the team’s current situation, reminding listeners of the profound loss the club endured in July 2025 when Jota was killed in a car accident.
“I would be careful and very calm when criticising this Liverpool team. Let’s not forget what happened!” Mikel cautioned. “Losing such a massive figure is always going to affect these players.”
Mikel’s comments shift the focus from on-field tactics and individual errors to the profound human element of sport. He highlighted the close-knit environment of a professional football club, where teammates often form deep bonds akin to family, making the grief of such a loss a heavy burden to carry into competitive matches.
The intervention comes as Liverpool navigates a period of inconsistent results, with Salah, the team’s usual talisman, appearing uncharacteristically subdued in recent matches, leading to speculation about his form.
Ultimately, Mikel’s plea is for patience and a recognition that athletes, despite their elite status, are not immune to the emotional toll of personal tragedy. His words serve as a powerful reminder that behind the global superstars are individuals coping with profound loss, which can inevitably impact their performance on the pitch.
