In 2005, John Obi Mikel was a relatively unknown Nigerian footballer who was playing for Lyn in Norway. Despite never having played a game in England, he quickly became the most talked-about player in the country.
Manchester United, Lyn, and the player had a press conference to confirm his signing, and the player even posed with a United shirt with the number 21 on it.
When Chelsea claimed they had an agreement with the player, the guy went missing, and there were additional reports that he was compelled to sign a deal with United and other shenanigans, everything became a mess.
Get Instantly Update By: Joining Our Whatapps and Telegram Channel
When Chelsea agreed to pay United £12 million to sign the player and an additional £4 million to Lyn, the transfer was completed, and the Red Devils made a tidy profit for a player who never played for them.
Nobody knows what transpired or why Mikel changed his mind about signing with the Blues, but he finally explained it to the Players Tribune, saying:
“Do you know what influenced my decision?” Along with me, Chelsea had signed three other Nigerian players. To keep me company, they were staying with me at my London home. These guys’ lives were riding on the outcome of my decision. They were gone if I went to United. They were going to have a career if I moved to Chelsea. That was significant to me, regardless of how long it lasted. You know, just to give them a chance.
“I chose Chelsea, and that day four lives were changed.”
Mikel went on to clarify the difficulties, saying, “My father, on the other hand, was not pleased with what had occurred. Because he admired Alex Ferguson, he wanted me to go to Manchester United. Many people in Nigeria advised me to join United because of how effectively they work with young players, whereas Chelsea only bought superstars.
“And it’s true that I was just 18 when Chelsea had midfielders like Lampard, Ballack, and Makélélé. Many people in Nigeria questioned that if I went to Chelsea, I would even make the team.
“I’ll tell you everything that happened. I had a slew of folks on both sides vying for my attention. Strangers, agents, managers, and guys handing me papers On the one hand, I had Sir Alex Ferguson ringing me on the phone. On the other hand, I had Roman Abramovich on my side, putting me up in London and hiding me somewhere only a few people knew about. It was rather perplexing, especially since I was a child.”
Mikel Obi, a former Super Eagles midfielder, has revealed why he turned down a move to Manchester United despite having signed a contract with the Premier League giants.
The former Chelsea star told Naija FM 102.7 in Lagos that he left Manchester United for Chelsea because of Jose Mourinho, Roman Abramovich, and the positive atmosphere there.
Mikel told Nigerian radio station Naija FM 102.7 in Lagos, “I was 18 years old and all I wanted to do was play football.”
“I had already signed with Manchester United, but after meeting with Mourinho and Roman Abramovich, I opted to join Chelsea.”
“Chelsea appeared to be a more interesting location to be, but I’m glad I chose it since it was one of the best decisions I’ve ever made.”
“I had a great time there, I remained for a long period, and I won everything.” In the end, I was victorious.”
Mikel’s decision to play at Stamford Bridge paid off handsomely, as he went on to win 11 titles.