Chelsea have since installed Calum McFarlane as interim manager while the club evaluates long-term options, with several high-profile names—including Cesc Fàbregas and Andoni Iraola—reportedly under consideration.
Speaking on his podcast, Mikel argued that while some of the candidates may be promising, Filipe Luís stands out for his tactical organisation and clear footballing philosophy.
“I think for me, it’d be too early for Fabregas,” Mikel said.
On Luís, he added: “He is a fantastic manager and his team played fantastic football in the Club World Cup. There was a clear structure, playing with purpose. That’s how you know someone can become a top manager.”
While acknowledging that appointing the former Brazilian international might still be a bold step, Mikel maintained that, among the reported options, Luís would be his preferred choice for Chelsea’s next permanent manager.