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Mourinho insisted that I should return my first car. - Mikel Obi

Nigerian legend Mikel Obi reflects on how Jose Mourinho shaped his career at Premier League side Chelsea.Nigerian football legend Mikel Obi recently opened up about his time at Chelsea and the important role that manager Jose Mourinho played in shaping both his career and character.

During a heartfelt episode of the ObiOne Podcast, Mikel shared a memorable story that spotlighted the father-son dynamic he had with Mourinho, particularly after he received his first salary at the club. Reflecting on that moment, Mikel recalled how excited he was to purchase a brand-new Range Rover with his hard-earned money. However, his joy was short-lived when Mourinho saw the car and immediately told him to return it.

These inquiries demonstrated Mourinho's genuine care for Mikel's well-being, ensuring he remained grounded despite his newfound wealth and fame. "He made sure I kept my feet on the ground," Mikel added, recalling how important it was for him to stay humble and respectful. Mikel joined Chelsea in 2006 after a dramatic transfer saga involving Manchester United. Under Mourinho’s guidance, he transformed from an attacking midfielder into a key defensive player, contributing significantly to Chelsea's success over 11 seasons.

He said via tv47, ‘You need to get a Mini instead,’" Mikel laughed as he recounted the story. This interaction wasn't just about the car; it was a lesson in humility and responsibility that Mikel cherished.Mourinho's influence extended far beyond the pitch. He consistently checked in on Mikel's life decisions, asking questions like, “What did you do with your salary? Did you put it in the bank? Did you buy a house?”

During this time, he helped the club secure numerous titles, including two Premier League titles and a UEFA Champions League trophy. Despite the challenges and changes in his playing style, Mikel maintains profound respect for Mourinho. 'He was special for a reason,' Mikel expressed, recognizing Mourinho's exceptional capacity to achieve victories and impact players' lives. Their enduring bond was highlighted during a recent reunion when Mikel visited Mourinho in Turkey, where he currently holds the position of manager at Fenerbahçe. This relationship serves as a testament to the profound impact mentorship can have, not only on a player's career but also on their life. Egn News 2025.