In a recent episode of his podcast, The Obi One Podcast, ex-Chelsea midfielder John Obi Mikel did not hold back in his criticism of Arsenal fans who were optimistic about securing a marquee signing in Vinicius Junior from Real Madrid.
The 26-year-old Brazilian recently extended his contract with the 'Royal Club' for six years, despite the reigning English champions' bid to make him the highest-paid player in Premier League history.
Key quotes from John Obi Mikel
On the naivety of the fans:
"Of course, he signed a new contract with Real - that was his plan all along. I don't know what Arsenal fans were hoping for. You won the league for the first time in 22 years and suddenly thought you were back among the elite? Not a chance."
On the difference in club status:
"They've just been brought back to reality. There's no way Vinicius Junior would leave Real Madrid for Arsenal - a club that has won one title in the last 22 years. This lad is used to winning; he has lifted the Champions League. Arsenal have zero Champions League trophies. I don't understand what rubbish their supporters are smoking if they genuinely believed in this transfer."
On the winger's manipulation:
"He simply used you [Arsenal] to negotiate better terms for himself in Madrid."
On the transfer attractiveness of the Gunners:
"They wanted Morgan Rogers, but we ended up signing him [at Chelsea]. Many players they were after have chosen other clubs. It shows that not everyone is buying into what Arsenal are trying to sell."
With three weeks remaining before the transfer window closes, Mikel Arteta's side has now shifted their focus towards alternative options, including Bradley Barcola from PSG and Kenan Yildiz from Juventus.
