Chelsea icon John Obi Mikel has taken to social media to confirm that he has decided to retire from international football at the age of 32.
The central midfielder debuted for the Super Eagles in 2005 after starring for the U17 and U20 sides, and featured in two World Cups 2014 and 2018, and five Africa Cup of Nations most recently in Egypt.
Mikel was an influential member of the Super Eagles squad that won the 2013 AFCON and also won bronze with the Dream Team VI at the 2016 Olympic Games in Rio.
Explaining his decision to retire, the former Chelsea star says he wants to give a chance to up-and-coming players.
Cj09
168
Legendary status.. Wished you could have signed off in style with a goal. But not withstanding you served your nation well.. God bless you
youngprof1
123
Just spoke about him today to my uncle on our way to work. He really tried.
Costa49
115
Thank you soo much for everything Mikel😭😭. One of the reasons I started supporting Chelsea is you. After the 2005 world youth championships in Holland where you came 2nd to Lionel Messi. I watched you kicked your first shot for Chelsea nd your last as well. Thank you so much for the Joy you brought to me. My friends up till this day still called me Mikel cos that was the first jersey I had as a human being. Your Chelsea jersey with the number 12. May God guide nd protect you for the reminder of you beautiful illustrious career. Amen 🙏🏽 #ThankYou JohnObiChekwubeMicheal
Shyam_ Madridsta
102
Happy Retirement Legend
sirpaul42
85
carry on... Mikel The team should have won a gold medal for you though... perfect retirement gift...
lopadpy
67
The most loyal player I have ever seen, a legend both in Super eagles and in Chelsea. I respect you so much Bro 💯. wishing you Grace you so desire to continue with your carrier. much love
Mosanya
58
We will never forget you, you are an inspiration to all Nigerian fans, we will miss you John obi Mikel.. Forever a super eagle #Legend
Dodcilmpsy
34
Mikel Obi, the most humble and committed Captain ever produced by Nigeria. we cherished all your tireless services to your dear country Nigeria. ln fact your positive contribution to Nigerian football for the past fifteen years could never be over emphasized. You have won three major medals for Nigeria namely Gold, Sliver, and Bronze. You are really legend in his own time. All these good omen will forever be remembered at all time. we love you and wish you well in wherever you want to be and whatever you want to do . May Almighty God keep you, protect you and as well bless you both now and forever through Jesus Christ our Lord. Amen
sazabcdty
31
Thank you so much my able captain with all due respect I appreciate your effort for what you ,has done for the Nation and equally to your fellow prayers, if not for any other thing , but for the money you paid for your team years back when our way tough ,you showed love to all and as a captain what it takes to be a leader. I equally also won't forget ,your good passes because you teach me how important it is to give a good pass , yes I rant it from you and ,as an a young player I am now I do it when ever I get to pitch , is true that I don't have the opportunity to play with you but I hope , we must meet some day , bro RESPECT TO YOU SIR JOHN OBI Mike , more grace and strength in your career .