English Premier League
“I was lucky” — John Obi Mikel on his Chelsea’s trial experience
By Monsurah Olatunji
Ex-international Mikel Obi has shared his experiences of joining Chelsea as a teenager and the profound impact playing alongside club legends had on his career.
Signing for the Blues at just 19 years old in 2006, Obi had already garnered attention after a standout performance at the U20 FIFA World Cup, where he finished as the tournament’s second-best player behind Lionel Messi.
During his time at Chelsea, Obi made 372 appearances, contributing 6 goals and 13 assists. He enjoyed significant success, winning the Premier League, four FA Cups, a Champions League, and a UEFA Europa League.
Reflecting on his transition from Nigeria to the high-profile environment of Stamford Bridge, Obi expressed gratitude for the mentorship he received. “I was a kid coming from Africa, and to be in that dressing room with legends like Marcel Desailly, John Terry, and Jimmy Floyd Hasselbaink was incredible,” he said on BeIN Sports.
Obi recalled his first weeks at the club, training alongside these stars, and how it helped him grow. “I had a great 23 weeks with them, and I was there, too, with no fear to show what I could do,” he noted. “I was lucky enough to impress not just the coaches but the players as well.”
His journey emphasizes the importance of mentorship and opportunity, illustrating how training with established legends shaped his development and success at Chelsea.
