Super Eagles midfielder, Alex Iwobi, has lauded Mikel Obi as a legend of football. In an interview with Kiss Fresh, the Fulham star reflected on surpassing Mikel’s record for the most minutes played by a Nigerian in the Premier League. Surpassing Mikel Obi to become the Nigerian player with the most minutes played in the Premier League is crazy, Iwobi expressed.
I’m not trying to stop I’m trying to increase that, so whoever comes after the record will have a lot of hard work to do. It’s a big achievement because John Obi is a legend in the game. The fact that I’ve played with him makes me feel old. He was my idol at one point, but now he is a legend.
Editorial
We deeply appreciate Alex Iwobi’s recognition of John Obi Mikel’s immense contribution to football. Mikel Obi, often considered one of the finest midfielders to emerge from Nigeria, has had a storied career filled with numerous accolades and significant milestones. Iwobi’s admiration for Mikel highlights the respect and esteem that Mikel commands among his peers.
John Obi Mikel’s career is a testament to his skill, dedication, and influence on and off the pitch. His achievements with Chelsea, including multiple Premier League titles and a UEFA Champions League victory, have cemented his legacy in football history. Mikel’s calm demeanour, exceptional game reading ability, and leadership qualities made him a cornerstone of both club and country teams.
Alex Iwobi’s journey in the Premier League has been equally inspiring. Surpassing Mikel’s record for the most minutes played by a Nigerian in the league is a remarkable feat, reflecting his consistency, endurance, and talent. Iwobi’s drive to set a high bar for future generations is commendable and embodies the spirit of continuous improvement and excellence.
It is heartening to see Iwobi acknowledge the influence and inspiration that Mikel has had in his career. Such recognition underscores the importance of role models in sports, where established stars inspire upcoming talents to strive for greatness. Mikel’s legacy serves as a guiding light for many young footballers aspiring to make their mark on the global stage.
In celebrating these milestones, we must continue to support and nurture our football talents, providing them with the platforms and opportunities to excel. The future of Nigerian football looks promising with players like Iwobi leading the charge, inspired by legends like Mikel Obi.
Did You Know?
- John Obi Mikel won the Chelsea Player of the Year award in 2007.
- Mikel Obi played a crucial role in Nigeria’s victory at the 2013 Africa Cup of Nations.
- Alex Iwobi started his youth career at Arsenal, where he made significant strides before moving to Everton and then Fulham.
- Mikel Obi has over 90 caps for the Nigerian national team.
- The Premier League is considered one of the most physically demanding football leagues in the world, making Iwobi’s achievement even more impressive.
