John Terry, Didier Drogba, others pay tribute to Mikel Obi on his retirement

Mikel Obi celebrates his first ever league goal in England with Chelsea on his 185th appearance for the London Club. Mikel announced his retirement on Tuesday. (Photo credit: Chelsea)

Professional teammates, organizations and other notable individuals paid glowing tributes to John Mikel Obi on Tuesday as the former Chelsea midfielder announced his retirement from the game of football.

Mikel Obi, famous for the grueling transfer saga between Manchester United and Chelsea, which eventually landed the Nigerian international at Stamford Bridge; the transfer saga went on for over eighteen months and Mikel Obi was not allowed to feature for any side in that time.

Mikel Obi retires as one of the most decorated African players ever, second only to Samuel Etoo who is now the president of the Cameroonian FA. Mikel won the champions league, the Europa League, premier league, FA Cup and African Cup of Nations for Nigeria.

The UEFA Champions League official handle, Europa League, Chelsea, Solomon Kalou, Ogenyi Onazi, Jude Ighalo and a host of others have sent good words to Mikel Obi on his retirement on a career that would be the envy of many.

The 35-year-old has refused to rule out football in the future as he confirms he’s opening a new chapter in his life outside professional football. Mikel captained the Super Eagles to the 2018 World Cup, a veteran of three World Cups.