The Obi One Podcast

Quiet man Ricardo Carvalho did much of his talking on the pitch during a glittering career that included successful spells with Porto, Chelsea and Real Madrid. Here, ‘Riccy’ sets the record straight as he sits down with John Obi Mikel and Chris McHardy for a rare interview. And he doesn’t disappoint. Carvalho opens up on his unique relationship with José Mourinho - manager he’s played under at three different clubs and who signed him twice. He also reveals what made his partnership with John Terry so special, and no it wasn’t down to communication! Carvalho also discusses life at Real Madrid and going head-to-head with Pep Guardiola’s Barcelona. As for the genius of Lionel Messi?! How do you set about trying to stop him? And Carvalho also doesn’t shy away from Portugal’s disappointing 2026 World Cup. Part of Roberto Martinez’s backroom staff, he’s in a position to pass judgement on their campaign, with talking inevitably turning to Cristiano Ronaldo. So the big question: should he have been dropped? And if…

There’s an awful lot to unpack on this episode of Taking the Mikel as John Obi Mikel and Chris McHardy dissect only Tottenham’s second league win at Chelsea in 36 years and the chaos that has engulfed Manchester United after yet another defeat. Mikel explains why he’s not hitting the panic button after a chastening night at Stamford Bridge and why Bruno Fernandes should hang his head in shame. The guys discuss Man Utd’s troubles at length, ponder whether Antonio Conte is the man for a ‘cultural reset’ and pay tribute to a new-look José Mourinho after an El Clásico success. Nicolas Jackson also gets his flowers after making it seven goals in as many games for a rejuvenated Aston Villa which leads to the question: is Unai Emery the man for the biggest job in football right now? Thanks to our proud sponsors Betwinner | betwinner.com

The Obi One Podcast is in Accra, Ghana for an exclusive sit-down with André Ayew. Filmed in front of a live audience, Ayew talks candidly about making his own name and stepping out of the shadow of his father, Abedi Pele. He also outlines the ills currently blighting Ghanian football, and hints at a future run for President! The former Marseille and Swansea man reminisces about winning a historic FIFA Under-20 World Cup, the regrets he has with the Black Stars, and why Luis Suaréz’s infamous handball at the 2010 World Cup hurt African football. Ayew also talks about his club career and why moves to Liverpool and Inter Milan never materialised, and why Chelsea were lucky to see the best of a certain Michael Essien. The Obi One Podcast in conversation with André Ayew.

John Obi Mikel and Chris McHardy review a weekend that saw a Cole Palmer-inspired Chelsea hit Bournemouth for five and Manchester City put their legal woes behind them to thrash Liverpool at Anfield. Just how good is Chelsea’s front three? Mikel has special praise for one of the triumvirate in particular while the guys explain why a ruling in City’s appeal against the Premier League is a must before the end of the season. Michael Carrick’s troubles at Manchester United also come under the microscope as the guys name their number one choice to replace him in the Old Trafford dugout should the axe fall in the coming weeks. Mikel also weighs in on Cristiano Ronaldo’s predicament with the Portuguese national team, with the message: ‘must do better’.

Willian is our special guest on this episode of the Obi One Podcast as the Brazilian reflects on his glittering career. Here, he opens on the protracted nature of his 11th hour move to Chelsea and reveals just how close he came to doing a ‘Roman Abramovich’ and opting for Tottenham. Willian also opens up on life inside the famed Chelsea dressing room, his admiration for Eden Hazard and the dynamics of his working relationship with Frank Lampard: from team-mate to gaffer. The Brazilian also provides fascinating insight into the early stages of Mikel Arteta’s revolution at Arsenal, painting a different picture to the one so carefully cultivated today. And if all of that wasn’t enough, Willian also recalls the worst day of his professional career, and a result Brazilian football still hasn’t recovered from.

John Obi Mikel and Chris McHardy have their say on the bombshell news that Manchester City have been found guilty of 114 charges related to breaches of Premier League regulations. What does this mean for the club moving forward? What is a suitable punishment should the guilty verdict be upheld? And what’s the impact on Pep Guardiola’s managerial legacy? The guys discuss it all in this episode of Taking the Mikel. Obi also takes aim at the contenders for this year’s Ballon d’Or and reveals who’d get his vote, while Thomas Tuchel’s treatment of Cole Palmer is also a bone of contention.

André Villas-Boas joins the Obi One Podcast to set the record straight once and for all on his time at both Chelsea and Tottenham. And trust us, he doesn’t hold back! Welcoming John Obi Mikel and Chris McHardy to FC Porto where he now serves as President, AVB outlines his vision for the club and the challenges faced by the cash-rich Premier League. AVB then lifts the lid on what REALLY happened during his ill-fated eight months in charge at Chelsea. From Roman Abramovich’s exodus plea and fall-outs with key players to feeling betrayed by Roberto Di Matteo and a Champions League Final revelation. Villas-Boas also details his time at Tottenham, reveals the catalyst for Gareth Bale’s metamorphosis into one of the world’s best players and an extraordinary phone call that saw him spurn the advances of PSG… much to the annoyance of Daniel Levy. André Villas-Boas, as you’ve never seen or heard him before, on the Obi One Podcast.

It’s the day after the night before and the VAR farce that has the whole footballing world talking. John Obi Mikel believes the ‘game is gone’, and he might not be wrong. From clueless refereeing officials to Michael Oliver’s arrogance to throw-in rules that make no sense, the guys cover it all. Mikel also believes Chelsea are on the right track despite shipping another two goals in their draw with Hull City, and explains why he’d rather be in Xabi Alonso’s shoes right now than Roberto De Zerbi’s. Martin Odegaard gets his flowers while Mikel also calls on a couple of Nigerian legends to step up. Enough with words, it’s time for action as the crisis engulfing Nigerian football gets worse.

Obafemi Martins joins the Obi One Podcast to reflect on a career that burned bright for both club and country. In this episode, ‘ObaGoal’ reminisces about his big breakthrough at Inter Milan in 2002 and playing alongside a certain Brazilian, the machinations of his move to Newcastle and why his League Cup Final winner against Arsenal almost didn’t happen. Martins also discusses his time with the Super Eagles, analyses Victor Osimhen’s game and tells us why there was no-one quicker than him. NO-ONE.

A winning start to life as Chelsea manager for Xabi Alonso has got John Obi Mikel excited. Here, him and Chris McHardy assess their 3-2 win at Fulham on the opening week, and explain why, in Cole Palmer, Morgan Rogers and Joao Pedro, they might just have the league’s most devastating forward line. It’s not all good news though as Mikel says ‘enough is enough’ with Robert Sanchez. Is Emi Martinez the answer, what of young Nigerian-Italian Honest Anahor and is Alex Scott the right man to replace wantaway Enzo Fernandez. Mikel also can’t resist a pop at Manchester United (look away now, Harry Maguire), has a warning for Ayyoub Bouaddi and explains why he DOESN’T have a problem with Ollie Watkins’ antics at Aston Villa. Oh, is Cole Palmer the player to watch in the Premier League this season…

John Obi Mikel and Chris McHardy are back for Season 5, and they’re kicking it off with a player so good they named him twice: Nigerian legend Jay-Jay Okocha. In this candid, in-depth interview, Okocha sets the record straight on a number of subjects. From announcing himself to the footballing world at Frankfurt, changing his name in Turkey, mentoring a future Ballon d’Or winner in Paris and dealing with the unique managerial skills of Sam Allardyce at Bolton, Okocha has seen - and achieved - an awful lot in his career. Who does he regard as Africa’s greatest ever footballer? Which Premier League top six club did he turn down? Was a move to Real Madrid ever in the offing? And would he be interested in a role with the Nigerian FA? Okocha answers them all in this illuminating, and at times hilarious, conversation with his fellow Super Eagles great Obi Mikel.

News broke this week that Sir Alex Ferguson had a verbal agreement for José Mourinho to succeed him at Manchester United back in 2013 — before Mourinho did a U-turn back to his beloved Chelsea. Mikel gives his honest verdict on what might have been, and explains why the Roman Abramovich pull was too strong to resist. Elsewhere, Vinicius Jr has ended Arsenal's transfer dream by signing a new six-year deal at Real Madrid. Mikel doesn't hold back on why the Gunners were never getting their man — and what it means for Mourinho's new-look Madrid alongside the club's stunning capture of Ivorian starlet Diomandé. Plus, Mikel runs the rule over Chelsea's 22-day transfer scramble under Xabi Alonso, reacts to Mykhaylo Mudryk's ban being lifted, weighs in on Mohamed Salah's shock move to Trabzonspor, and explains why Manchester City simply cannot afford to lose Rodri.

New season. New studio. Same John Obi Mikel! Mikel is back with Chris McHardy as they look ahead to the brand new domestic football season. As Xabi Alonso’s Chelsea revolution takes shape, the guys analyse the new arrivals and hypothesise on what transfer business is still needed. Emi Martinez, anyone? Mikel gives his verdict on Morgan Rogers and the other high-profile midfield acquisitions across the Premier Lesgue. From Elliott Anderson to Sandro Tonali to the “best signing of the lot”. Mikel also weighs in on the ‘will he, won’t he’ transfer of Vini Jnr, gives his thoughts on Mo Salah’s link to Trabzonspor and explains why José Mourinho could be about to author one heck of a final chapter at Real Madrid. Taking the Mikel is back!

It’s the morning after the night before and Arsenal’s first Premier League title in 22 years. John Obi Mikel gives his verdict, and there’s begrudging respect there. With Pep Guardiola set to depart Manchester City after a decade as manager, Mikel and Chris discuss his legacy and ask whether he really is the greatest the Premier League has ever had. Xabi Alonso’s appointment as Chelsea boss comes under the microscope, as Mikel outlines what excites him the most about the Spaniard’s arrival. There’s also a tense standoff between the lads over Mohamed Salah’s latest social media outburst. Was he in the right? And what does Arne Slot do now?

Chelsea is a club on its knees. Six successive league defeats, four on the bounce at Stamford Bridge and the worst run of results since 1993. Little wonder then, Blues legend John Obi Mikel is crestfallen. Resigned to Chelsea’s fate this season, Mikel calls out the club’s ills and demands a reset this summer as he fears the club are slipping into mediocrity and a finish outside the top half. So what is needed? Leaders? Check. A semblance of a plan? Check. Xavi Alonso…?! 👀 Watch as an impassioned Mikel breaks down what needs to happen sooner rather than later. Mikel also gives his verdict on the Premier League title run in, begrudgingly gives Arsenal their flowers and laments the loss of Manchester City’s most important player. Oh, and José Mourinho back to Real Madrid? Mikel gives his view.

Chelsea is a club on its knees. Six successive league defeats, four on the bounce at Stamford Bridge and the worst run of results since 1993. Little wonder then, Blues legend John Obi Mikel is crestfallen. Resigned to Chelsea’s fate this season, Mikel calls out the club’s ills and demands a reset this summer as he fears the club are slipping into mediocrity and a finish outside the top half. So what is needed? Leaders? Check. A semblance of a plan? Check. Xavi Alonso…?! 👀 Watch as an impassioned Mikel breaks down what needs to happen sooner rather than later. Mikel also gives his verdict on the Premier League title run in, begrudgingly gives Arsenal their flowers and laments the loss of Manchester City’s most important player. Oh, and José Mourinho back to Real Madrid? Mikel gives his view.

There’s no shortage of talking points for John Obi Mikel and Chris McHardy to wade through after a tumultuous week that saw Chelsea sack boss Liam Rosenior AND reach the FA Cup Final. As always, Mikel doesn’t hold back as he applauds Chelsea’s win over Leeds AND picks through the wreckage of their’s shambolic 3-0 loss at Brighton, a result that ended Rosenior’s tenure after just 106 days. Who’s next in the Blues hot seat? Mikel and Chris discuss the leading candidates and John Terry’s latest snub by the club’s owners. Mikel also sets the record straight on “fake news” doing the rounds on social media, and pays tribute to his fellow Nigerian Michael Eneramo who passed away over the weekend. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

John Obi Mikel and Chris McHardy discuss the weekend’s top stories as Manchester City wrestle control of the title race from Arsenal. It’s now just one win in six for the Gunners as they are edged out at the Etihad Stadium, and Obi Mikel isn’t happy with Mikel Arteta. Mikel also has his say on Gabriel’s headbutt on Erling Haaland and ponders whether Arsenal will not be more comfortable hunting rather than being hunted. Another defeat for Chelsea means it’s four on the bounce without so much as a goal scored, and just one win in eight. Little worried Mikel is worried and left questioning where on earth the club is headed. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

John Obi Mikel and Chris McHardy walk back arguably the best weekend of the Premier League season so far as Arsenal hand the title initiative to City, Chelsea draw a blank (again) and Tottenham’s relegation troubles deepen. Mikel wants Arsenal to ditch the gimmicks and go back to basics, he identifies the REAL reason Man City are back in the title race and he sets the record straight on Liam Delap who he’s been accused of giving an easy ride this season. The guys also pick through the bones of another defeat for Tottenham that leaves them winless in 2026 and staring down the barrel of life in the Championship next season. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode of Taking the Mikel, John Obi and Chris McHardy delve into Chelsea’s recent woes. From defeats on the pitch to key players speaking out on Enzo Maresca’s departure. What does it all mean for Liam Rosenior? Mikel doesn’t hold back on his assessment. Simply put: it’s Champions League or bust. The guys also discuss Roberto de Zerbi’s appointment as Tottenham’s new boss and why it spells trouble for the club’s underperforming stars. Mikel also makes an admission that might not go down too well with his fellow Chelsea fans. The guys also discuss Mohamed Salah’s next destination as he gears up to leave Liverpool, plus Mikel launches into an impassioned tirade over the “ludicrous” decision to strip Senegal of their African Cup of Nations title. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

John Obi Mikel and Chris McHardy are in Nairobi in this episode of the podcast to catch up with Kenyan trailblazers: brothers MacDonald Mariga and Victor Wanyama. First up, Mariga lifts the lid on working with José Mourinho, becoming the first player from Kenya to lift the UEFA Championd League and why a potential move to Manchester City was scuppered. He also gives his take on the current state of the Kenyan game and African football as a whole. Wanyama follows as he reflects on a career that took him to England via Celtic to play for Southampton and Tottenham under the leadership of Mauricio Pochettino. He also weighs in on the debate as to who is the greatest player in African football history. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

John Obi Mikel and Salomon Kalou have had a brotherly bond since their days together at Chelsea. And that unique friendship is on display here as the two men reunite for a candid and, at times, hilarious jaunt down memory lane. Here, Kalou recounts the lengths José Mourinho went to scout him in person at Feyenoord, his first meeting with Roman Abramovich at a place where ‘everyone signed on the dotted line’ and why he wasn’t so keen on Didier Drogba’s expensive Ferrari! Mikel can’t resist teasing his friend over one of the more unique hairstyles we’ve seen in the Premier League, and why he always had to have a stocked fridge! Kalou also finally reveals what really happened between himself and Michael Ballack that led to their infamous training ground dust-up. Settle in for this one, as two Chelsea greats chew the fat about the glory days on the pitch, and the mad times off it. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Things get heated in this episode of Taking the Mikel as John Obi can’t hide his disgust at what he calls Arsenal’s “cheat code”: their set-pieces. No one is safe as the former Chelsea man hits out at Mikel Arteta and the standard of officiating in the Premier League. But is there an ulterior motive? All is revealed. Mikel and Chris also weigh into the debate over Michael Carrick’s long-term future as Manchester United with both debating the merits of two other candidates. Igor Tudor comes under fire too after his winless start to life as Tottenham boss continues, and Mikel finds time to criticise Liam Rosenior over his use of Chelsea’s talisman Cole Palmer. And finally, how many of this current Arsenal side would make the Invincibles XI of 2004? The guys have their say. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Taking the Mikel is back with a bang as John Obi Mikel and Chris McHardy run the rule over a controversial week. First up, the race for the Premier League title, and Mikel refuses to get carried away with Arsenal’s 4-1 at Tottenham for one major reason. Doubts over this Chelsea team linger, but Mikel has Liam Rosenior’s back when it comes to trolling on social media. John and Chris also wade into the racism storm involving Vinicius Junior and the incendiary post-match comments of José Mourinho. John pleads with his former boss and weighs in on Mark Clattenburg’s ill-advised remarks too. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Luís Figo is a footballing icon. One of the greatest players of his generation, a Ballon d’Or winner and the subject of one of the most controversial and talked about transfers of all time. Here, the Portuguese sits down with John and Chris at the Melia Desert Palm in Dubai to reflect on his illustrious career, and set the record straight once and for all. So what does he REALLY think of Cristiano Ronaldo and his place among the game’s pantheon? And what of his bid to one day become UEFA president? Luís also takes us into the inner workings of his transfer from Barcelona to Real Madrid in 2000, a move that shocked the world. What was the catalyst, how did his family deal with the fallout and most pressing of all: does he have any regrets? Figo also talks us into the inner sanctum of Real’s Galacticos, picks the team’s best player and reveals just how close he came to a move to the English Premier League. Luís Figo was speaking to the Obi One Podcast to celebrate La Liga’s partnership with Meliá Hotels…

The Obi One Podcast is on the road again, this time in Abidjan for a live event with special guest Wilfried Bony. A cult hero at Swansea, a League Cup winner with Manchester City and an African champion with his beloved Ivory Coast, Bony looks back on his career and some of the sliding door moments within it. he came close to a move to Arsenal after a clandestine meeting with then boss Arsene Wenger, why he spurned the riches on offer in China and the rollercoaster of emotions that he went through in winning the African Cup of Nations in 2015. Bony also discusses the dressing dynamics of that Ivory Coast team which featured both Didier Drogba and Yaya Touré. Who was the top dog? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Diego Costa is a two-time Premier League winner, a Chelsea cult hero, and a man who gave many a defender sleepless nights He remains, however, somewhat of an enigma. In this exclusive interview, Diego sits down with his former Chelsea team-mate John Obi Mikel and Chris McHardy to set the record straight. Is he the snarling, aggressive man we see on the pitch or simply misunderstood? So, why did he leave Chelsea? And what does he REALLY think of the man who engineered his exit: Antonio Conte? Unsurprisingly for a man who never backed down from a fight on the pitch, he doesn’t hold back. Costa also outlines what makes Diego Simeone and José Mourinho so special, has his say on his bad boy image label, and takes us back to the night of the infamous Battle of the Bridge against Tottenham. He also explains why Didier Drogba will always be ‘God’ and names the striker he’d pick ahead of Erling Haaland today. Hold onto your hats, folks, for this unfiltered and unflinching conversation with a Blues great. It’s Diego…

The Obi One Podcast is on the road again, this time back in Istanbul to chat to Besiktas’ cult hero Atiba Hutchinson. The Canadian spent a decade with the club, winning three league titles and a Turkish Cup during that period to establish himself as one of the club’s greatest ever players. Alongside a coterie of die-hard Besiktas fans, John Obi Mikel and Chris McHardy quiz the Canadian on life in Turkey, the impact both José Mourinho and Victor Osimhen have had on the league and what life was like under former managers Ole Gunnar Solskjaer and Slaven Bilić. There’s also Hutchinson’s thoughts on the current Canadian team and whether they have what it takes to shock the world next summer at the World Cup Finals. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

New Year, New Managers! We kick things off with why Maresca’s exit felt like an “accident waiting to happen” — and John Obi Mikel asks the big question: what’s Chelsea’s objective right now? Then it’s on to Manchester United: ownership chaos, and why the biggest names won’t walk into a job where they’re expected to be a yes-man. And finally, Nigeria. Former Super Eagles captain John Obi Mikel gives his take on Victor Osimhen’s passion — and how far this team can really go. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Settle in, folks as John Obi Mikel and Chris McHardy bring you this extended version of Taking the Mikel, and for good reason, as there’s no shortage of talking points. In this episode, the guys try to decipher Enzo Maresca’s cryptic post-match comments as Chelsea return to winning ways, while Mikel has some friendly advice for the Blues boss. Mikel also weighs into the spat between Mohamed Salah, Liverpool and Jamie Carragher, and he doesn’t hold back either assessing Nigeria’s African Cup of Nations chances. The guys clash as they discuss the biggest headache facing England boss Thomas Tuchel: who gets the nod in that No10 position? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

He’s one of the most recognisable faces in the UK for his work on - and off - the pitch. A prolific goalscorer for England turned host of the BBC’s iconic Match of the Day TV programme. Now embarking on a new chapter with his hugely-popular The Rest is Football podcast, Gary Lineker sits down with John Obi Mikel and Chris McHardy to reminisce. And there’s plenty on the agenda. From his fallout with Johan Cruyff to his close bond with Terry Venables, and from the embarrassment of shitting himself at Italia ‘90 to the heartbreak of losing a World Cup semi-final. And there’s questions. What hurt more? Defeat to Diego Maradona’s Argentina in ‘86 or that loss to Germany in ‘90? Who is better - Scholes, Gerrard and Lampard? And why is Cristiano Ronaldo not on Lionel Messi or Maradona’s level. He also speaks powerfully about his son’s childhood leukaemia battle, how it changed his outlook on life, and why being able to look himself in the mirror matters more than any headline. Learn more about your ad choices.…

John Obi Mikel and Chris McHardy are back in the hotseats as they pour over Chelsea’s 1-1 draw with league leaders Arsenal. Did Moises Caicedo deserve his red card? And what did we learn about Chelsea as again, in the big games, they come to the fore. Obi has words of praise for an embattled star AND one of Enzo Maresca’s trusted lieutenants, while he again questions whether Arsenal have what it takes to finally rid themselves of the “bottlers” tag. There’s also war stories from Obi’s career during UK winters, with the snood - a favourite among many footballers - coming under attack. Plus a former Blues defender is hailed after guiding Flamengo to Copa Libertadores success in South America. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

John Obi Mikel is in Madrid to catch up with arguably the greatest left-back in the history of the game: Roberto Carlos. In this wide-ranging interview, the Brazilian legend opens up on what life was like as a Real Madrid ‘Galactico’. The highs, the lows, and the stories from inside one of the most famous dressing rooms of all-time. What was it like playing with Luis Figo and Zinedine Zidane? What REALLY led to the fight between Thomas Gravesen and Robinho? And who was the greatest of them all? His answer might surprise you. Roberto also takes us into the Brazilian dressing room before the 1998 World Cup Final? What is the truth behind Ronaldo’s ‘injury’? And just how good was Ronaldinho? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

There’s only one thing on John Obi Mikel’s mind in this episode of Taking the Mikel: Nigeria’s failure to reach the World Cup Finals. Again. The former Super Eagles captain calls for every member of the NFF to stand down in the wake of their defeat to DR Congo, opens the door to joining a new-look board IF certain criteria is met and asks the question: why hasn’t any African nation used ‘voodoo practices’ to actually win the World Cup? Eric Chelle’s long-term future as coach also comes under the microscope while Obi Mikel makes no secret of the fact over who he’ll be supporting next summer now. A must-listen for all Nigerian football fans struggling to come to terms with their side’s World Cup demise and eager to see a regime chance at the top of the Nigerian Football Federation. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

‘Mr Chelsea’ himself John Terry returns to the Obi One Podcast. Only this time he joins his former teammate John Obi Mikel and Chris McHardy in front of a live audience at the Clapham Grand in London. JT and Mikel share a treasure trove of insights and anecdotes from Chelsea’s unforgiving dressing room. From standards to superstitions; Petr Cech’s unforgettable first training session, Tal Ben Haim’s bold request and Didier Drogba’s pre-match ritual. Terry also reveals Carlo Ancelotti’s love of a post-game cigarette, how close he came to a dressing room punch-up with Rafa Benitez and why he’ll always be Roman Abramovich’s number one supporter. The former Chelsea captain also gives his verdict on Enzo Maresca’s side and picks out a former Blue as his dream signing. And if all of that wasn’t enough, tune in, as Obi Mikel reveals why you should never, EVER get in a lift with Diego Costa! John Terry and John Obi Mikel, in conversation with Chris McHardy. A must-watch for all Chelsea fans. Learn more about your ad…

John Obi Mikel and Chris McHardy are back with a new Taking the Mikel as they reflect on a weekend that saw the old Manchester City return in their 3-0 win over Liverpool. Obi Mikel goes to war with Pep Guardiola naysayers but not before waxing lyrical about a trio of Chelsea players he believes forms the best midfield three in world football. He also can’t resist another dig at Arsenal as they drop points at Sunderland plus he’s in good spirts ahead of Nigeria’s make-or-break World Cup playoff meeting with Gabon. And he’s asked for one thing… Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this episode of the Obi One Podcast, John Obi Mikel sits down with a young manager destined for the very top: his former Chelsea team-mate Filipe Luís. In this exclusive, in-depth conversation, Filipe Luís discusses life as Flamengo boss, his managerial traits and why he treats everyone differently in the dressing room. He also outlines why Diego Simeone has had the biggest impact on his footballing life, gives a detailed tactical breakdown of how his side beat Chelsea in the FIFA Club World Cup and recalls the time José Mourinho said he was “shit”. Hear from a manager destined to managing one of Europe’s biggest clubs sooner rather than later. John Obi Mikel in conversation with Filipe Luís. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

John Obi Mikel is back in the hotseat alongside Chris McHardy for the latest episode of Taking the Mikel. Chelsea’s 2-1 home defeat to Sunderland leads to uncomfortable truths as the issue of consistency rears its ugly head. John is forced into an Arsenal admission as they keep a sixth clean sheet in nine league games this season. Is this FINALLY their time? Liverpool’s demise also comes under the microscope while Nigeria’s World Cup odyssey leads John to making a bold claim while aiming both barrels at CAF for their ‘disrespect’ towards Nigerian referees. Thanks to our proud sponsors Betwinner | betwinner.com Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

John Obi Mikel and Chris McHardy are in Rio de Janeiro to speak to one of Brazilian football’s favourite sons: Zico. Affectionately known as the ‘White Pele’, the former No10 is arguably the greatest player never to win the World Cup whilst for his beloved Flamengo, he has attained God-like status. In this interview, filmed at the Bakana Bar, a stone’s throw from the iconic Maracana, Zico explains why Pele is, and always will be, the GOAT. He has his say on the great Messi-Ronaldo debate, likens Estêvão to another boy wonder and gives his verdict on the greatest player out of Africa. CLUE: he’s Nigerian! 😀 The Obi One Podcast in conversation with the legendary Zico. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

John Obi Mikel is a happy camper in this episode of Taking the Mikel as Chelsea produce their best performance of the season to down Liverpool. Obi explains why the win might just be bigger than any other for Enzo Maresca, outlines the brilliance of Moises Caicedo, and explains why he would have excelled in this 2025 team. Obi and Chris also discuss a make-or-break week for Nigeria and their hopes of reaching next summer’s World Cup Finals. Obi’s message is pretty simple. And there’s details too on the Obi One Podcast LIVE event in London on Monday, October 13. Join John Obi Mikel and John Terry for a special Q&A at the Clapham Grand. Buy your tickets now: TheObiOne.eventbrite.co.uk Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

To kick off Season 4, John Obi Mikel has flown almost 7,400 miles to Brazil to catch up with his former Chelsea team-mate Oscar Emboaba. Now at boyhood club São Paulo, Oscar reflects on his five year stay at Chelsea, the ex-Blues manager he spurned in order to move to Stamford Bridge and the role Antonio Conte played in his departure from the club in 2017. The Brazilian playmaker sets the record straight on his ‘lucrative’ move to China, reveals what life was like in the Far East and the massive club who came so close to bring him back to European football. Oscar also ponders whether Carlo Ancelotti will be a success in Brazil, Neymar’s future with the national team and Enzo Maresca’s suitability as Chelsea boss. Not one to miss! 🔥 Season 4 of the Obi One Podcast. In conversation with Oscar Emboaba. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Back-to-back Premier League defeats for Chelsea has John Obi Mikel worried in this episode of Taking the Mikel. John explains why a side containing John Terry would NEVER have been as naive as the Blues were in defeat to Brighton. Enzo Fernandez gets both barrels too for his role in Trevoh Chalobah’s sending off. John also casts his eye over “lucky” Arsenal and says enough is enough with the Ruben Amorim experiment at Manchester United. As for his replacement? John sounds the alarm that every United fan will dread… JOIN US The Obi One Podcast is coming to London on Monday, October 13. Come and watch the guys LIVE with special guest John Terry joining them at the iconic Clapham Grand. Expect plenty of laughs and revelations not to mention changes to win some incredible signed merchandise. Tickets are on sale NOW. TheObiOne.EventBrite.co.uk COMING UP Our exclusive interview with former Chelsea and Brazil star Oscar drops on Thursday, October 2. Don’t miss it, right here on the Obi One Podcast YouTube channel.…

In this episode of Taking the Mikel, John Obi can’t hide his frustration after Chelsea’s defeat at Manchester United. Was the criticism of Robert Sanchez and boss Enzo Maresca fair? And what concerns with this Chelsea side are keeping John up at nights? The guys also discuss José Mourinho’s return to management with Benfica. But will we see a more selfless José as promised? John’s verdict on that plus the reason he’s still not convinced by Arsenal and Mikel Arteta this season. All of that PLUS details of the podcast’s upcoming live show in London with special guest, Chelsea legend John Terry. Join the guys at Clapham Grand in London on Monday, October 13. Doors open at 6.30pm. Tickets are available now: TheObiOne.eventbrite.co.uk Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

After a summer stint with DAZN at the FIFA Club World Cup, John Obi Mikel is reunited with Chris McHardy for the first Taking the Mikel episode of the new season. 🔥 Here, John reflects on Chelsea’s success Stateside, runs the rule over his former club’s summer transfer dealings and bemoans the one player that got away. Ange Postecoglou’s appointment as the new Nottingham Forest boss attracts John’s ire as does Ruben Amorim’s body language on the touchline for Manchester United. As for Nigeria’s faltering bid to qualify for next year’s World Cup Finals? Hold onto your hats, folks, as John doesn’t hold back in his assessment of what EXACTLY is going wrong behind the scenes. gulp Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Peter Crouch is football’s BFG. A player who perhaps never got the plaudits his talent deserved on the pitch and who’s now flourishing off it with his eponymous Peter Crouch Podcast and as a pundit for TNT Sports. He’s also the latest guest on the Obi One Podcast as he swaps his hot seat for the sofa, quite literally, to talk to John and Chris: Here, “Crouchy” discusses life at Liverpool, why he wanted to impress Steven Gerrard more than anyone else and why Stevie’s on-field love affair with Fernando Torres spelled the end of his own Anfield career. The brilliance of Gareth Bale, Luka Modric and… Tony Pulis is also discussed, as is Peter’s relationship with his wife, Abbey, and the reason she helped him flourish. Crouch also candidly opens up on the mental anguish he suffered over the way he looked. Watch our Season 3 Playlist: YouTube Follow, connect, and engage on our social media channels: Instagram | X/Twitter | Facebook Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

It’s fair to say former Chelsea and England forward Eni Aluko has been in the wars of late. Here, the footballer-turned-pundit has her say on a wide range of subjects including her well-publiced legal battle with Joey Barton, and the reason she believes it’s gone this far. Eni also discusses her Nigerian roots, explains the similarities between Emma Hayes and José Mourinho, and puts forward a radical new eligibility rule for FIFA to consider. Aluko also reflects on her struggles in Italy with Juventus and gives her verdict on Enzo Maresca and Chelsea’s ‘business-first’ owners. All this, and much more, on the latest episode of the Obi One Podcast, in conversation with Eni Aluko. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

On the latest episode of the Obi One Podcast, John Obi Mikel sits down for a chat with another Chelsea great: Jimmy Floyd Hasselbaink. The former Blues No9 gives his verdict on the current Chelsea side under Enzo Maresca, gives his full backing to an under-fire Nicholas Jackson and explains why he DOESN’T want Victor Osimhen at Stamford Bridge. Jimmy also reflects on his own time in West London, why the calibre of striker in the Premier League at that time drove him to greater heights and there’s the TRUTH behind his Chelsea exit. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

He’s a Treble winner and fourth on the Premier League’s all-time scoring list with 187 goals. Introducing the latest guest on the Obi One Podcast: Manchester United legend Andy Cole. ‘Coley’ sits down with John Obi Mikel and Chris McHardy to reflect on the highs - and lows - from his career on and off the pitch. He sets the record straight on what really happened at Newcastle and why he hasn’t spoken to Kevin Keegan since. What were his first impressions of Manchester United, Sir Alex Ferguson and a certain Eric Cantona? And, what does he make of today’s United and Ruben Amorim? Cole also famously shunned penalty kicks, scoring just once from the spot in the Premier League. But why? The former striker reveals all. Plus, Cole also lifts the lid on his health battle off the field and a betrayal that left him questioning everything. This is the real Andy Cole. Unapologetic and authentic. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Arsenal Fan TV host Robbie Lyle is the latest guest to join John Obi Mikel and Chris McHardy on the Obi One Podcast, and as you’d expect, it’s full of passion and disagreements! Robbie has built AFTV into the biggest fan network in the world and is well-versed in defending his team to the hilt, even in the face of a Chelsea great. In this episode, Robbie reflects on the tenure of Mikel Arteta, ponders whether he is still the right man for the job and discusses what is needed in the summer transfer window. Robbie and John also deliberate over a combined Chelsea-Arsenal XI, which leads to one astonishing omission. https://www.instagram.com/obionepodcast?igsh=MWNzbHVocHdzeWZwdA== https://x.com/obionepodcast?s=21 https://www.facebook.com/share/1AJ7ZPB4Cp/?mibextid=wwXIfr Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

It’s a case of ‘I told you so’ for Chelsea legend John Obi Mikel as his former side achieve their No1 ambition this season of qualifying for the UEFA Champions League. Mikel reflects on their win at Nottingham Forest on the final day, plus he looks ahead to their Europa League Conference showdown with Real Betis. John and Chris also have praise for Ange Postecoglou, preview PSG v Inter Milan in the Champions League Final and pick their Premier League Team of the Season. Just how many Chelsea players does John manage to squeeze into his starting XI? https://www.instagram.com/obionepodcast?igsh=MWNzbHVocHdzeWZwdA== https://x.com/obionepodcast?s=21 https://www.facebook.com/share/1AJ7ZPB4Cp/?mibextid=wwXIfr Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices