Nigerian legend Mikel Obi reflects on how Jose Mourinho shaped his career at Premier League side Chelsea.
Nigerian football legend Mikel Obi recently opened up about his time at Chelsea and the important role that manager Jose Mourinho played in shaping both his career and character.
During a heartfelt episode of the ObiOne Podcast, Mikel shared a memorable story that spotlighted the father-son dynamic he had with Mourinho, particularly after he received his first salary at the club.
 "He told me to return it - Mikel Obi on Mourinho's reaction after he splashed first Chelsea salary 1")
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 "He told me to return it - Mikel Obi on Mourinho's reaction after he splashed first Chelsea salary 2")
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Reflecting on that moment, Mikel recalled how excited he was to purchase a brand-new Range Rover with his hard-earned money.
However, his joy was short-lived when Mourinho saw the car and immediately told him to return it.
Mikel Obi, Chelsea legend || YouTube
“He said, ‘You need to get a Mini instead,’” Mikel laughed as he recounted the story. This interaction wasn’t just about the car; it was a lesson in humility and responsibility that Mikel cherished.
Mourinho’s influence extended far beyond the pitch. He consistently checked in on Mikel’s life decisions, asking questions like, “What did you do with your salary? Did you put it in the bank? Did you buy a house?”
Jose Mourinho said he has his special bond with Mikel Obi (Twitter/X)
Jose Mourinho reveals his special bond with Mikel Obi
These inquiries demonstrated Mourinho’s genuine care for Mikel’s well-being, ensuring he remained grounded despite his newfound wealth and fame.
“He made sure I kept my feet on the ground,” Mikel added, recalling how important it was for him to stay humble and respectful.
Mikel Obi says Mourinho was interested in his finances.
Mikel joined Chelsea in 2006 after a dramatic transfer saga involving Manchester United. Under Mourinho’s guidance, he transformed from an attacking midfielder into a key defensive player, contributing significantly to Chelsea’s success over 11 seasons.
During this time, he helped the club secure numerous titles, including two Premier League titles and a UEFA Champions League trophy.
Mikel Obi at Chelsea. || imago
Despite the challenges and changes in his playing style, Mikel holds deep respect for Mourinho. “He was special for a reason,” Mikel said, acknowledging Mourinho’s remarkable ability to win trophies and influence players’ lives.
Their bond has endured over the years, culminating in a recent reunion when Mikel visited Mourinho in Turkey, where he currently manages Fenerbahçe. This relationship exemplifies how mentorship can profoundly impact not just a player’s career but their life as well.
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