Former Tremendous Eagles captain, John Mikel Obi, has opened up in regards to the two coaches who had the most important affect on his soccer profession with the Nigerian nationwide workforce.
Talking on his podcast, Mikel spoke warmly in regards to the late Stephen Keshi and Augustine Eguavoen. He defined how each males formed him, not simply as a participant but additionally as an individual.
Mikel, who performed over 100 occasions for Nigeria, mentioned Keshi and Eguavoen stood out due to their management and private help. “They had been greater than coaches,” he mentioned. “They had been like fathers to me.”
Keshi Was a True Chief
Mikel described Keshi because the coach who introduced success and perception again to the Tremendous Eagles. Underneath Keshi’s steerage, Nigeria received the Africa Cup of Nations in 2013, with Mikel enjoying a key function within the workforce.
“Keshi believed in me from the beginning,” Mikel mentioned. “He trusted me to steer the workforce on the pitch, and that gave me confidence. Profitable AFCON with him is considered one of my proudest moments.”
Keshi, who sadly handed away in 2016, is remembered by many Nigerians as a legend, each as a participant and a coach.
Eguavoen’s Assist from the Starting
Mikel Obi additionally shared his deep respect for Augustine Eguavoen, who coached him at completely different levels of his profession, ranging from the U17 workforce. He mentioned Eguavoen at all times handled him like a son.
“Eguavoen was there in the beginning of my journey,” Mikel mentioned. “He made me really feel vital and gave me my first probability. Even later with the Tremendous Eagles, he was at all times supportive and inspiring.”
A Message for the New Era
Throughout his dialog with Tremendous Eagles striker Victor Osimhen, Mikel Obi praised the present squad and inspired them to respect the individuals who assist them develop. He reminded younger gamers that behind each nice footballer, there are coaches who information and consider in them.
“Keshi and Eguavoen made me the participant I grew to become,” Mikel mentioned. “I hope immediately’s gamers even have folks like them of their lives.”
