Super Eagles skipper, John Obi Mikel has decided to throw more light on the reason why he moved from Chelsea to Tianjin Teda FC in China in a bid to dispel rumours that he left for the money.
Mikel admitted he needs to be match fit and stay in tune primarily for Nigeria’s sake towards the 2018 World Cup in Russia stating that it was not all about the money.
“I could easily have stayed in Chelsea for the remaining six months of my contract but it won’t be in the best interest of my nation, as they need me match fit when the World Cup 2018 qualifiers resume”, Mikel told Owngoalnigeria.com.
“It wasn’t an easy decision to make but I seriously need matches to stay fit for Nigeria. Nigerians don’t deserve to miss out of the World Cup after back to back failure to qualify for the Africa Cup of Nations.”
Mikel could no longer keep his place in Chelsea’s first team, hence had to move to a new club where he can get playing time.
That Mikel decide to move to China is in his own interest and quite important at this time. His choice must be respected, after all he had offers from other clubs but decided to go in the footsteps of the likes of his former teammate Oscar et al.
If the 29-year old midfielder had stayed back at Chelsea without having a taste of first team game, and yet gets called up to the Super Eagles to feature in important games, then one can say something is not right. His move was imminent. Mikel should also be told that he did not move for Nigeria’s sake as he mentioned, rather he moved to keep his space and position as Super Eagles captain since Coach Genort Rohr is pleased with his China move.
On whether the move was motivated by the money or not, this is Mikel’s business, he can enjoy the money.
Meanwhile, Mikel’s new club ended last season 10th on the log, but hopes for a better season with recent addition to the squad.
