Nigeria’s Super Eagles captain, Wilfred Ndidi, has spoken about the inspiration he drew from former Chelsea midfielder John Obi Mikel during his formative years as a footballer. Ndidi made the revelation at a pre-match press conference on Monday, ahead of the team’s Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) Group C match against Uganda.
Ndidi’s admiration for Mikel is rooted in the latter’s illustrious career, which included a stint as captain of the Super Eagles. The Besiktas midfielder recalled looking up to Mikel and other great players as a young footballer, striving to emulate their success. “Every player wants to be in the national team, but even the younger players, we’re the ones they look up to because I was once there, looking up to great players like John Mikel Obi and the rest,” Ndidi explained.
Ndidi’s own career has been on an upward trajectory, with the midfielder having scored one goal in the 2025 AFCON, against Tunisia. His performance has been a key factor in the Super Eagles’ campaign, and his experience will be crucial in the upcoming match against Uganda.
The Africa Cup of Nations is a premier international football tournament in Africa, featuring the best teams from the continent. The competition provides a platform for players like Ndidi to showcase their skills and represent their countries on the global stage. With the Super Eagles seeking to make a strong impression in the tournament, Ndidi’s leadership and inspiration will be essential in motivating his teammates.
As the Super Eagles prepare to face Uganda, Ndidi’s comments serve as a reminder of the importance of role models in football. His admiration for Mikel highlights the impact that experienced players can have on younger generations, inspiring them to work towards their goals and strive for excellence. The outcome of the match against Uganda will be closely watched, as the Super Eagles aim to advance in the tournament and make their nation proud.
