Former Super Eagles Captain John Obi Mikel has seen football at its highest level from winning the UEFA Champions League with Chelsea to competing on the world stage with Nigeria but it’s what he discovered in Kenya that has the former midfield general buzzing with excitement.
Mikel, 38, is currently visiting Nairobi as part of a tour organised by Africa Cultural Enterprise (London) and esports platform Afrigame. But this isn’t just a ceremonial trip — what he’s seen on the ground has left him convinced that Kenya is sitting on a footballing goldmine.
“I’ve been really impressed by the talent here,” Mikel said during a press event.
“The kids in the academies have incredible potential. If they’re nurtured properly, I wouldn’t be surprised if the next big football superstar comes from Kenya.”
The Chelsea legend didn’t stop there. He threw his full support behind South African icon Benni McCarthy, who is expected to take on a coaching role with the Kenyan national team.
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According to Mikel, McCarthy has walked into a “fantastic opportunity.”
“I know Benni — he’s a great guy and a great coach,” Mikel said. “He’s got a solid team to work with and a whole generation of young talent coming up. That’s the kind of foundation every coach dreams of.”
Mikel poses next to the UCL trophy.(Photo by Getty Images)
What really caught Mikel’s attention, though, wasn’t just the senior players — it was the next generation.
“I hope Benni takes time to really watch the kids in the academies,” he said. “Because that’s where the magic is. Who knows? Maybe the next Messi, the next John Obi Mikel, or even the next Ronaldo will come from here.”
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Mikel also shared his hopes for the Kenyan national team’s future, saying he enjoys watching them in international tournaments and wants to see them grow into a global force.
“They’re improving year by year,” he added. “They bring energy and excitement to the game. I truly believe Kenya is on the verge of something special.”
During his time in the country, Mikel has taken part in grassroots football clinics, joined the 50th anniversary celebrations at Rusinga School.
