In an interview with CNN, former Chelsea midfield maestro John Obi Mikel revealed his strong inclination towards taking on an administrative role with the Super Eagles rather than pursuing a coaching position.
Mikel, a two-time English Premier League title winner, expressed a preference for contributing from a managerial perspective while avoiding the potential challenges of a coaching role.
“I would love to get involved with the Super Eagles, but not as a manager. I don’t want to get sacked, and I don’t think I can handle that very well. I want to be involved with the national team as someone trying to fix the problems from the top,” stated Mikel, showcasing his keen interest in addressing structural issues within football management.
Mikel’s vision extends beyond on-field strategies, focusing on the structural and administrative aspects of football.
He emphasized the crucial role of management in achieving football success, noting that success is not solely determined on the pitch but also relies on effective administration.
“If it means to be a mediator between the players and the NFF to make sure things are run properly and have the right people managing what we should do together to make sure that we succeed. Success doesn’t happen only on the pitch but from the top. So for me, that’s where we should start,” added Mikel.
This perspective reflects Mikel’s holistic view of football success, where his influence transcends the field and delves into the realms of football administration and strategy.
As a vocal supporter of the Super Eagles, Mikel continues to express his admiration for the team as they gear up for the upcoming AFCON tournament in Ivory Coast.