Video: John Obi Mikel Narrates How Chelsea Fed His Family and Paid for His Tuition in Norway

• John Obi Mikel has lifted the lid on the transfer saga between Manchester United and Chelsea
• The former Nigeria player was close to joining the Red Devils but instead switched to the Blues
• Obi Mikel spent 11 years at Stamford Bridge and won several titles during his time with the club

Former Nigeria midfielder, John Obi Mikel has finally broken his silence on the transfer saga between Manchester United and Chelsea before his move to England.

The 35-year-old had signed a pre-contract with the Red Devils but ended up moving to the Blues instead.

Obi Mikel disclosed that before moving to England, Chelsea were already taking care of his family and his education as a teenager in Norway.

"Obviously I signed the pre-contract with Manchester United," he told Dubaiye Radio. "But before that, I was living in Norway and playing for Lyn Oslo."

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Obi Mikel explained that Chelsea had actually sent him to the Norwegian club but this was not common knowledge.

"There were few things that was actually going on. I was there and Chelsea were looking after me, my family, giving me bits here and there and they were paying my school fees as well."

The ex-Super Eagles midfielder enjoyed a successful spell at the Blues, winning several titles including the UEFA Champions League and multiple Premier Leagues.

Obi Mikel also won the Africa Cup of Nations with the Super Eagles in 2013, starring at the tournament in Gabon.

Mikel admits Mourinho scared him

Sports Brief also reported on retired Nigerian international, Obi Mikel revealing he was scared playing under Portuguese manager, Jose Mourinho.

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The former Super Eagles captain, who is retired from professional football, was part of the Chelsea squad that won several major titles from 2006 to 2017.

Obi Mikel spent 11 seasons at Stamford Bridge, winning two EPL titles, four FA Cups, one EFL Cup, one Community Shield, one UCL title and the Europa League.

Mikel names dream XI

Sports Brief also reported on Obi Mikel naming his dream team, amid celebrations last year on his 35th birthday.

The former Super Eagles captain has shared dressing rooms with many incredible players during his stellar career.

While playing in the EPL, Obi Mikel was rated as one of the best midfielders in the and even won awards to back it up.