Fans, Eguavoen, Terry Hail Ex-Chelsea Star
Former Super Eagles captain Mikel John Obi has announced his retirement from football, aged 35.
The two-time EPL winner’s announcement brought down the curtain on an 18-year senior career that included 11 years at Stamford Bridge.
The Chelsea star’s final club was Kuwait SC, following spells at Middlesbrough and Stoke.
Mikel gave kudos to all those who contributed to his illustrious career, saying he is proud of all he was able to achieve.
He said: ‘There is a saying that “all good things must come to an end”, and for my professional football career, that day is today,’ said Mikel on Instagram.
“I look back at the past 20 years of my career, and I must say that I am very satisfied with all that I was able to achieve and more importantly the human it has helped shape.
“All of this would not have been possible without the unwavering support of my family, managers, clubs, coaches, teammates and most importantly my ever-loyal fans.
You supported me through my highs and lows, even on days that I did not live up to your expectations.
‘I say a big thank you.’
Meanwhile, former coaches, teammates and current Super Eagles players have taken turns on social media to sharer tributes to former Eagles captain Mikel Obi, who announced his retirement from football on Tuesday.
Nigerian Football Federation Technical Director, Austin Eguavoen, who first coached the former Chelsea star at U-17 level, praised the 35-year-old, who had a trophy-laden career.
“What a career,” Eguavoen wrote beneath Mikel’s post on Instagram.
“Congratulations on your retirement, John Mikel Obi. It was an honor coaching you at the FIFA U-17 World Cup 2003, AFCON 2006 and AFCON 2008. You played it all, and won it all.”
Former Chelsea captain, John Terry, added, “@mikel_john_obi, What a great career my friend, it was a pleasure to play and share the dressing room with you. Love you Georgie Boy.”
Former Ivoirian forward, Salomon Kalou, who arrived Chelsea at the same time with Mikel, wrote, “Thank You Baba. I miss you Baba and thank you for that wonderful journey.”
Al Hilal midfielder, Odion Ighalo, who bowed out of the Eagles with Mikel after the 2019 AFCON, stated, “Congrats skipper and good luck.”
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