AFCON 2025
Nigerian football legend, John Mikel Obi has made a headline-grabbing appearance on Gary Lineker’s popular podcast, The Rest Is Football, joining the former England striker and co-hosts Alan Shearer and Micah Richards for an insightful and entertaining episode.
The former Chelsea midfielder opened up about his storied career, sharing memorable moments from his time at Stamford Bridge, his experience playing under José Mourinho, and how he evolved from an attacking midfielder to one of the most reliable defensive midfielders of his generation.
Reflecting on his early years at Chelsea, Mikel revealed how Mourinho played a pivotal role in reshaping his game: “He told me, ‘If you don’t learn how to defend, you won’t play.’ That was the moment everything changed for me,” he said.
Mikel also spoke about the intense competition within the Chelsea squad during the club’s most successful era, his Champions League triumph in 2012, and the now-famous 2005 transfer saga that saw him controversially snub Manchester United for the Blues.
The episode took a personal turn as Mikel discussed life after football, including his new media venture, The Obi One Podcast, where he interviews fellow professionals and reflects on the highs and lows of elite football.
He also touched on the importance of guiding young African talents and giving back to the game that brought him global recognition.
Lineker, Shearer, and Richards lauded Mikel’s professionalism, with Richards calling him “one of the most underrated players of his time.”
The episode has been widely praised by fans for its honesty, humour, and depth — giving listeners a fresh look at the career of one of Africa’s most accomplished footballers.
