Strained relationship revealed
Former Nigeria national team coach Samson Siasia has unveiled details of his tense rapport with legendary midfielder John Mikel Obi during their shared tenure. Siasia, currently serving a reduced five-year ban from football activities, spoke candidly about his experiences with Mikel, branding the former Chelsea star as “stubborn” and admitting difficulty in managing him.
Siasia’s remarks, captured in a circulating video on social media, shed light on the challenges he faced while coaching the talented yet headstrong player.
“Mikel Obi is a little bit out of my league, stubborn and I cannot tolerate people like that,” Siasia stated in the video with disdain,” he said.
Siasia acknowledges Mikel’s importance
Despite the friction, Siasia acknowledged Mikel’s significance and leadership qualities, particularly highlighting his role in the 2016 Rio Olympics, where Nigeria clinched a bronze medal.
While expressing frustration with the former Super Eagles captain’s stubborn demeanor, Siasia credited the midfielder for his performance and leadership during the Olympic campaign, recognizing his pivotal contribution as the team’s captain.
“The only good thing he did was that Olympics he came out and played because I had warned him severally, and he played as a captain and that’s why we got to where we did,” he added.
Insight into coach-player dynamic
Siasia’s comments offer insight into the complex dynamic between two prominent figures in Nigerian football. Despite clashes in temperament, Mikel’s enduring influence as the national team captain underscores his pivotal role in guiding the squad to success, even amidst discord with the coach. The revelation provides a glimpse into the nuanced relationships within the team, highlighting the challenges
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