Former Tremendous Eagles captain, John Mikel Obi, has opened up concerning the two coaches who had the largest affect on his soccer profession with the Nigerian nationwide workforce.
Talking on his podcast, Mikel spoke warmly concerning 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 have been greater than coaches,” he mentioned. “They have 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 steering, Nigeria gained 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 guide the workforce on the pitch, and that gave me confidence. Profitable AFCON with him is certainly 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 phases of his profession, ranging from the U17 workforce. He mentioned Eguavoen at all times handled him like a son.
“Eguavoen was there at first 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 turned,” Mikel mentioned. “I hope at the moment’s gamers even have individuals like them of their lives.”
