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Mikel Inspires Tianjin Teda Revival Under New German Leadership

In the wake of a disheartening 1-5 home defeat to Changchun Yatai on Friday, Captain John Obi Mikel of Super Eagles and Tianjin Teda has rallied his team, expressing unwavering determination to navigate through the storm of relegation. In an exclusive interview with sports.sina.com.cn, Mikel disclosed the team’s commitment to embracing the strategic vision of their newly appointed German coach, Uli Stielike.
Tianjin Teda, enduring a turbulent season, witnessed their woes persist with the recent loss at the Tuanbo Soccer Stadium. The defeat prompted Mikel to emphasize the need for resilience and hard work in the face of adversity. “The team now has a new coach and the new coach also brought a new game formation, so we are eager to show on the field. We also look forward to winning matches and getting out of the current situation,” Mikel asserted, highlighting the team’s collective eagerness for redemption.
Following the dismissal of caretaker coach Chi Rongliang last week, German tactician Uli Stielike assumed leadership in the hopes of rejuvenating Tianjin Teda’s campaign. Mikel, a former Chelsea FC midfield enforcer, expressed confidence in the coaching transition, emphasizing the players’ commitment to assimilating Stielike’s new tactical approach.
Tianjin Teda currently finds themselves submerged in the relegation waters, languishing in the 15th position on the Chinese Super League table with 16 points from 24 matches, having secured only three wins, seven draws, and suffering 14 defeats. The squad remains resolute, however, in their pursuit of victory under the tutelage of their new German mentor. As they strive to claw their way out of the relegation zone, the Tianjin Teda faithful eagerly await signs of a resurgence under Uli Stielike’s guidance.