Mikel Criticizes Chelsea Goalkeeping Strategy After Donnarumma’s Move To Manchester City

Chelsea legend Mikel has voiced his frustration over the Blues’ failure to recruit a top goalkeeper, pointing to Gianluigi Donnarumma’s move to Manchester City as evidence of missed opportunities.

The Italian goalkeeper, who recently won the 2025 Yashin Trophy for the world’s best goalkeeper, joined City on a five-year contract on the final day of the summer transfer window. Donnarumma has already impressed, keeping two clean sheets in his first three appearances for his new club.

Mikel’s Concerns Over Chelsea’s Title Chances

Speaking on The Obi One Podcast, Mikel expressed his belief that Chelsea’s current goalkeeper situation could hinder their Premier League title ambitions this season.

“I have said it so many times. We should have brought in a top goalkeeper during the transfer window. We see what Donnarumma is doing now at Manchester City; he was the goalkeeper that was out there. I know there has been a lot of talk about the wage structure, but you can find a way around that. He’s a top goalkeeper, 26 years of age. You could have found a way to make him fit into the wage structure. It’s going to be incredibly hard for us to win the Premier League with the goalkeeper that we have right now.”

Chelsea’s Missed Opportunities

Chelsea were reportedly interested in AC Milan’s Mike Maignan, but the deal never materialized. Fans may see renewed interest next summer, when Maignan is expected to become a free agent.

Mikel’s comments underscore the pressure on Chelsea’s management to strengthen their squad, particularly in goal, as they compete against Premier League heavyweights like Manchester City.