Mikel Obi, a former Nigerian and Chelsea player has drawn a comparison between Super Eagles' interim head coach, Augustine Eguavoen, and renowned Real Madrid manager, Carlo Ancelotti, Nigeriasoccernet.com gathered.
Mikel, who had the opportunity to play under Eguavoen at both junior and senior levels for Nigeria, shared his admiration for the coach’s managerial style during a conversation on the Obi One Podcast.
Mikel, a former captain of the Nigerian national team and one of Africa’s most decorated footballers, emphasized the freedom and confidence that Eguavoen instills in his players.
“I know the interim manager now, Augustine Eguavoen, who managed me when I was a kid, U-17, he was my coach, took us to the World Cup,” Mikel said on the podcast. “Fantastic guy, lovely guy, a manager who gives you all the freedom in the world to express yourself, speaks to you really well."
The former Chelsea midfielder went further to liken Eguavoen’s approach to that of Ancelotti, highlighting their shared strength in man-management. “He reminds me so much of Carlo Ancelotti, no jokes about that, his man management is top. He speaks to players really well. He is so humble. He communicates with players really well, puts his arm around you," Mikel added.
Mikel’s praise reflects the positive atmosphere surrounding the Super Eagles under Eguavoen's leadership, particularly considering his ability to motivate the team despite limited preparation time.
“He gets his players on his side, that’s so important. You could see coming in on short notice and getting the team to play so well. You can’t teach them so much in such a short space of time,” Mikel observed.
Eguavoen's recent impact has reignited optimism among Nigerian football fans as the Super Eagles continue their journey in the Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers and beyond. The coach’s ability to connect with his players and create an environment that allows them to thrive on the pitch is being viewed as crucial to the team's success moving forward.
Oluwayemi Omolagba