Nigerian Football Legend Mikel Obi Expresses Concerns Over Super Eagles’ World Cup Qualifying Struggles

Mikel Obi blames the Super Eagles' Performance.

 Nigerian football legend John Mikel Obi, widely regarded as one of the greatest midfielders to have ever represented the Super Eagles, remains an iconic figure in African football history. Known for his calmness, vision, and leadership on the pitch, Mikel rose to prominence after his outstanding performances at the FIFA U-20 World Cup in 2005, where he won the Silver Ball behind Lionel Messi. His career later blossomed at Chelsea Football Club, where he spent over a decade, winning multiple domestic and international titles including the English Premier League, FA Cup, and the prestigious UEFA Champions League in 2012. Beyond club football, Mikel was a pillar for the Nigerian national team, guiding them to victory at the 2013 Africa Cup of Nations and representing the country at several World Cup tournaments.

Now retired, Mikel Obi has transitioned into media appearances, punditry, and mentorship, often sharing his views on the state of Nigerian football. During a recent podcast interview on YouTube with a foreign journalist, the former Super Eagles captain expressed deep concerns about the current trajectory of the national team, particularly regarding their World Cup qualification campaign. His words carried both emotion and frustration, reflecting the sentiments of millions of Nigerians who continue to demand progress from their football administrators.

In his remarks, Mikel Obi said:

“Now I feel for the people of my country Nigeria, because they are gonna be devastated right now again for the second time running will no gonna qualify for the World Cup. If Nigeria don’t qualify, I believe all the Nigerian NFF needs to be sacked.”

The bluntness of his statement showcases the legendary midfielder’s dissatisfaction with the Nigeria Football Federation (NFF) and its handlinging of the national team’s affairs. He insisted that accountability must be enforced at the administrative level, stressing that failure to qualify for back-to-back World Cups would be unacceptable for a footballing nation of Nigeria’s pedigree.

Mikel Obi is concerned about the Nigerian Football Association

Mikel further emphasized Nigeria’s rich history and dominance in African football, describing the Super Eagles as one of the continent’s most successful teams with immense talent and potential. “Nigeria is one of the best Africa football teams when it comes to African countries,” he concluded, underscoring his belief that the nation should consistently be competing at the highest global stage.