John Obi Mikel, the former Chelsea midfielder, disclosed how Chelsea devised specific training methods to manage Lionel Messi during matches, highlighting the challenges posed by the Argentine superstar. Mikel’s insights into Chelsea training tactics against Messi come from his extensive experience facing both Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo multiple times in high-stakes competitions.
Throughout his career, Lionel Messi has met Chelsea on ten occasions exclusively in the UEFA Champions League, with a record of two wins, two losses, and six draws. Mikel participated in seven of these matches. Cristiano Ronaldo, on the other hand, confronted Chelsea seventeen times across various tournaments, achieving five wins, six draws, and six losses, six of which included Mikel on the pitch.
How Chelsea Adapted Their Strategy for Messi and Ronaldo
Drawing from his encounters with both legends, John Obi Mikel explained Chelsea’s tailored training approach in a 2023 episode of Rio Ferdinand Presents FIVE, as reported by The Sun. Against Cristiano Ronaldo, Chelsea relied on Ashley Cole’s defensive skills to contain the Portuguese forward. However, matches against Messi demanded a vastly different preparation.
“When we played against [Manchester] United when Cristiano was there, we knew Ash (Ashley Cole) would deal with him. He is capable of dealing with him. But every time it was against Barcelona, oh my god, training the whole week was about Messi. We have to have two-three players with him, you can’t defend one-v-one against him. It’s impossible. You’re dead,”
Mikel commented, underlining the extraordinary threat Messi posed on the field.
This strategy differed significantly from the more individual defensive approach used against Ronaldo, showcasing Messi’s unique skill set that forced Chelsea to assign multiple players to contain him simultaneously.
Mikel’s Personal Perspective on the Messi vs. Ronaldo Debate
Mikel offered his distinct viewpoint on the ongoing comparison between Messi and Ronaldo, drawing from his direct experience playing against both. While acknowledging Ronaldo’s achievements, he emphasized Messi’s exceptional talent and influence on matches.
“I know the comparison is there, but because I’ve played against both, and Messi was close to me when we played against them. But for me, and I’m not going to say miles because of what Cristiano has done as well, but for me I really don’t see the comparison. I just think Messi is from a different planet. I just think he is that good. The game plan was just to kick him because we can’t get the ball off him or get close enough.”
—John Obi Mikel, Former Chelsea Midfielder
Mikel’s remarks shed light on the extraordinary level of difficulty in defending Messi, to the extent that physicality was sometimes considered the only viable option to disrupt him.
Messi and Ronaldo’s Enduring Impact on Football
Over two decades, Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo have shaped the landscape of world football, collectively securing 13 Ballons d’Or—Messi with eight and Ronaldo with five. This unmatched dominance sets a benchmark that few players are likely to approach in the foreseeable future.
Despite both stars nearing the twilight of their careers—Ronaldo recently turning 40 and Messi approaching 38—they continue to excel at the highest level. Ronaldo recently captained Portugal to their second UEFA Nations League triumph, while Messi achieved historic success with Inter Miami, winning the 2023 Leagues Cup and the 2024 Supporters Shield.
Frank Lampard Reflects on the Messi vs. Ronaldo Rivalry
Chelsea legend Frank Lampard also weighed in on the debate between Messi and Ronaldo during a 2024 interview with TNT Sports Mexico. Having faced both players throughout his career, Lampard expressed admiration for each but leaned toward Messi’s extraordinary talent.
“I don’t like this conversation. I played against both, more with Cristiano when he was at Manchester United and with Messi I played against a lot in some big games between Chelsea and Barcelona. Messi for me individually for talent is the greatest ever probably, in my opinion.”
—Frank Lampard, Former Chelsea Player
However, Lampard made sure to praise Ronaldo’s remarkable dedication and achievements, acknowledging the difficulty in separating the two legends in the footballing conversation.
“But with Cristiano, what he did in terms of what he made himself and the numbers, output, goals, and dedication—even now to this day—means that they’re just there together. I have to respect them both in the same way. I don’t think it’s fair to try and put one above the other. I think they’ve been the most amazing players, and I’m honored that I could play against them.”
—Frank Lampard, Former Chelsea Player
Lampard’s balanced assessment reflects the respect both players command, illustrating how their individual journeys and styles have contributed to one of football’s greatest rivalries.
What Chelsea’s Training Strategies Against Messi Reveal About His Influence
Chelsea’s decision to allocate multiple defenders to mark Messi rather than engage in one-on-one duels reveals the Argentine’s extraordinary ability to control the game. This approach emphasizes the need for tactical flexibility and collective effort when facing a player of Messi’s caliber, which other teams also grapple with.
As football evolves, understanding and reacting to individual brilliance—like Messi’s—remains a critical challenge for clubs like Chelsea. Mikel’s observations underscore not only Messi’s impact on the pitch but also the broader tactical innovations required to compete at the highest level.