Mikel Obi had only one good game at Chelsea — Eden Hazard
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Chelsea London, v.l. Branislav Ivanovic (FC Chelsea), Eden Hazard (FC Chelsea), John Mikel Obi (FC Chelsea), John Terry (FC Chelsea), Cesar Azpilicueta (FC Chelsea) || Image credit: Imago

Mikel Obi had only one good game at Chelsea — Eden Hazard

Faruq Ibrahim 21:37 - 20.02.2024

Hazard reveals the only game Mikel Obi played well for Chelsea and what convinced him to join the Blues.

Eden Hazard recently opened up about the defining moments that swayed his decision to join Chelsea, a club where he would later etch his name among the legends. Hazard's tenure at Stamford Bridge was nothing short of spectacular, contributing significantly with 85 goals and 61 assists across 245 appearances. 

Before making the move to Chelsea in 2012, Hazard found himself at a crossroads, with Manchester United and Manchester City also vying for his signature. However, Chelsea's unexpected Champions League triumph that year tipped the scales in their favor.

A Game-Changing Victory

Hazard's revelation came during a candid conversation on the ObiOne Podcast, hosted by former Super Eagles midfielder Mikel Obi, a teammate with whom Hazard shared a strong camaraderie during their Chelsea days. 

The Belgian admitted, “When I wanted to change clubs, Chelsea was not one of my options until the day they won the Champions League,” highlighting the impact of Chelsea's European success on his decision. 

It was Chelsea's resilience and triumph in the 2012 Champions League final that ultimately convinced Hazard that Stamford Bridge was where his future lay.

Eden Hazard left Chelsea a legend || Imago
Eden Hazard left Chelsea a legend || Imago

Friendly Banter Among Legends

Despite the high stakes and the competitive nature of their professions, Hazard and Mikel shared a moment of lighthearted banter. Hazard playfully remarked, “I watched the game from my hotel room; the Champions League final is the only game you (Mikel) played good in your career.”  

Mikel won the 2012 UEFA Champions League after a man of the match performance in the final against Bayern Munich
Mikel won the 2012 UEFA Champions League after a man of the match performance in the final against Bayern Munich

Mikel, known for his own pivotal role in Chelsea's midfield, has also had his share of playful digs at Hazard on his podcast, yet their admiration for each other's contributions to the game and to Chelsea's legacy remains unwavering.

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