English Premier League
John Obi Mikel picks African GOAT, snubs Jay-jay Okocha
By Monsurah Olatunji
Former Chelsea midfielder Mikel Obi has named Didier Drogba and Yaya Touré as Africa’s greatest players, seemingly overlooking his compatriot Jay-Jay Okocha in the process.
Mikel, who spent over a decade at Chelsea, winning the Premier League, FA Cup, and UEFA Champions League, played alongside Drogba, Frank Lampard, and John Terry, while also facing stars like Yaya Touré, Cristiano Ronaldo, and Wayne Rooney throughout his illustrious career.
During Goal’s Knockout show, Mikel was asked to choose between some of Africa’s finest footballing legends. In the first round, Mikel selected Yaya Touré over Okocha, justifying his decision by stating, “For what he achieved, Yaya Touré.”
Mikel also chose Didier Drogba, his former Chelsea teammate, over Liverpool and Senegalese legend Sadio Mané, who now plays for Saudi Pro League giants Al Nassr.
In the next round, when Touré was pitted against George Weah, the 1995 Ballon d’Or winner, Mikel once again opted for Touré, cementing his belief in the Ivorian’s greatness.
In the final round, Mikel crowned Drogba as Africa’s greatest player, picking his long-time friend and teammate over Touré.
“I played with him for so many years, we won everything together, so I have to go with Didier,” Mikel stated, reflecting on the successful partnership they shared at Chelsea.
Though his choice of Drogba and Touré might raise some eyebrows, Mikel’s deep connection with both players is clear, particularly with Drogba, whom he won multiple titles with during their time together at Stamford Bridge.
