John Mikel Obi Opens Up on His Extremely ‘Lucky’ Journey to Stardom

• Mikel Obi has admitted that he is one of the very lucky Nigerians to play football at the highest level
• The former Nigerian international played for some top clubs in Europe, including Chelsea
• He is giving back to society as he took time out to mentor youths who are aspiring to be like him

Former Nigerian international Mikel Obi has disclosed that he is one of the luckiest Nigerians to play football at the very top.

The former Chelsea of England defensive midfielder shared his journey to stardom with some youths who converged at Wave Beach in Lagos during the Vyootopia Mission89 Africa digital sports conference 2022.

Mikel, who had 91 caps and six goals for the Super Eagles, was the 'personality spotlight' at the well-attended event, themed - 'Adopting new technologies in digital sports and increasing opportunities for African youth in the sports industry'.

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Football

The 35-year-old also offered tips for a successful footballing career, as he admitted that he was one of the luckiest Nigerians to have played football at the highest level.

He said, as per Pulse Sports:

"I have done a lot in my life and career. You know, going from where I grew up in the North, in Jos, playing football with no shoes and clothes like a lot of us here.

"And when the opportunities came, I am never going to say I am the most talented football player to come out of Nigeria but one of the luckiest.

"I have been very lucky to have gone to where I have in my career," he added. "who I am today is about luck, dedication, discipline, and prayers and I thank God for where he has taken me to."

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Football

Mikel rooting for Messi to win 2022 FIFA World Cup

Sports Brief earlier reported that Mikel minced no words in saying he wants Lionel Messi to win the 2022 FIFA World Cup in Qatar.

Argentina are through to the quarter-final stage of the competition, but they face a stern test on Friday night against European powerhouse the Netherlands.

After Nigeria failed to qualify for the global showpiece, Mikel Obi is pitching his tent with Argentina as he continues to root for Lionel Messi.