National Teams
“Educate yourself” – Sunday Oliseh schools podcaster John Obi Mikel
By Monsurah Olatunji
Former Nigeria star Sunday Oliseh has narrated what transpired between himself and the former midfielder John Mikel Obi.
Oliseh had a storied career for the Nigerian national team, and upon retirement and going into coaching, he was given the chance to commandeer the Super Eagles.
He was the coach of the Super Eagles between 2015 to 2016. However, his 14-game stint in charge was far from stellar. Although he only suffered two defeats in charge, his reign witnessed a breakdown in relationships with key players.
Eight years after leaving the role, Oliseh has come out in his own defence, narrating what happened between him and Mikel.
“I have no grudge against Mikel, I just feel that he needs help. If he wants, he can call me, I will give him advice,” he revealed during his chat with Elegbete TV.
“I sent a message to John Mikel Obi, but he never answered my call, he never called me back. He ignored me and played the big ego.
“I went to London with my assistants to speak with Mikel and Victor Moses, I gave them an appointment at the hotel, two teammates at the same club. Moses came to the meeting, but the other one refused to come.
“When people stop football, most players are lost, they don’t know what to do. During their days, some of them were so arrogant that they didn’t talk to people. But after retiring, they realize that they need people after all. They have to try to get back into the system. I know that is what Mikel is going through now, but there are ways to do it.
“One of the first things to do is to educate and work on yourself. For example, we saw the Ivory Coast player who went to the university to get a degree. If he wants to do podcasting, it’s good, but it’s not by attacking people and insulting and demolishing people.
“I heard him make comments about Kanu not being the most decorated Super Eagles player, but that is not what sells podcasts is what you have in your brain. So Mikel should educate himself, fill it with things, and then you can share.”
