In a recent episode of the Obi One Podcast, the former Super Eagles captain, John Mikel Obi, shared his valuable insights and reflections on his illustrious football career, including his experiences playing alongside some of the world’s most celebrated footballers.
During the conversation, Mikel made a rather intriguing revelation, referring to Eden Hazard as the “laziest footballer” he had ever shared the pitch with.
Mikel and Hazard formed a formidable partnership during their time at Chelsea, with their collaboration spanning an impressive five seasons. This period was marked by significant achievements, including the capture of the Premier League title, the UEFA Europa League, and The FA Cup.
Mikel’s assessment of Hazard’s work ethic might raise a few eyebrows within the football community. He boldly stated, “He is the laziest footballer I’ve ever seen in my life.” Yet, the former Chelsea midfielder was quick to provide context for this statement. Mikel elaborated on how Hazard’s seemingly relaxed approach in training did not necessarily reflect his performance during crucial matches. He went on to say, “But then, come the weekend, he wins the man-of-the-match award, and then he comes in and shows everyone. He’s like, ‘Come on, guys, you see.'”
Mikel’s candid comments shed light on the intricacies of the football world, where first impressions can be misleading, and a player’s true value is determined by their on-field contributions. While Hazard’s training style might not have mirrored the intensity of some of his peers, his ability to consistently shine in key moments, earning him the coveted man-of-the-match awards, underscored his exceptional talent and capacity to be a game-changer.
John Mikel Obi’s frank and insightful revelation offers football enthusiasts a glimpse into the multifaceted nature of the sport, highlighting the distinct attributes and contributions that different players bring to the beautiful game.
