Mikel Obi, a former captain of the Super Eagles and a star for Chelsea FC, has declared his retirement from football. He announced his decision to retire on Tuesday, September 27, 2022, via his official Instagram account.
In a statement, he stated, “There is a proverb that says, “All good things must come to an end,” and for my professional football career, that day is today. When I reflect on the previous 20 years of my profession, I have to admit that I am very happy with what I was able to accomplish and, more significantly, with the person it shaped.
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 when I did not live up to your expectations. I say a big thank you.
I will also like to encourage everyone who I may have inspired one way or the other in the course of my career to never give up on their dreams, for every time you think about quitting, remind yourself why you started. This is not goodbye, it’s the start of another journey, another chapter of my life. I look forward to what the future holds and I hope you will walk with me. Thank you.
Mikel has made the fourth-most appearances for Nigeria at the international level. Team Nigeria made four trips to the Africa Cup of Nations semifinals during his leadership (winning the tournament once, in 2013), and they also won a bronze medal at the 2016 Summer Olympics.
He has won the League Cup in 2007, the FA Cup three times, the Europa League in 2013, and twice the Premier League.
Good luck with your future endeavors, superstar!
