Rédaction Africa Links 24 with Guardian Nigeria
Published on 2024-02-16 10:30:33
Highly experienced and well-traveled football manager Jose Mourinho has expressed his admiration for Nigeria’s John Mikel Obi and African players in general, praising them for their loyalty and purity. The former Manchester United defender and current host of VIBE with FIVE, Rio Ferdinand, had the privilege of speaking with Mourinho, who is currently without a team after being sacked by Roma in January 2024.
Mourinho’s coaching career has brought him in contact with many African footballers, including Didier Drogba, Salomon Kalou, Samuel Eto’o, Michael Essien, Geremi Njitap, and Mikel, with whom he still shares strong relationships. As a result, the Portuguese football tactician has built a large following and fan base in African countries such as Nigeria, Ivory Coast, Cameroon, and Ghana.
During the interview, Mourinho humorously remarked that he couldn’t even set foot in Africa because of the overwhelming support and attention he received from fans due to his relationships with African players. He expressed his admiration for the loyalty and purity of African players, stating that they hold a special place in his heart. Mourinho went on to share that many of these players refer to him as “daddy,” a term of endearment that he values, but also finds humorous when he considers that some of these players are close to his age.
The former Super Eagles captain, Mikel, has always spoken highly of Mourinho and the respect and admiration he has for his former coach. The two shared a successful period at Chelsea, during which they won numerous trophies together. Mourinho’s positive comments about African players and his close relationships with them have endeared him to fans in Africa and demonstrated his deep appreciation for the continent’s football talent. He believes that he brings out the best in African players and that his genuine love and admiration for them are reciprocated, resulting in a strong bond between him and African footballers.
