Local News

John Obi Mikel Names Lionel Messi As His Dream Guest On The Obi One Podcast

When It Comes To Football Legends Transitioning Smoothly Into The Media World, John Obi Mikel Has Definitely Found His Rhythm.

The former Chelsea and Super Eagles midfielder has become a familiar voice in football conversations thanks to The Obi One Podcast, a show he co-hosts with Chris McHardy. The podcast has quickly become a favorite among football fans, giving listeners a blend of exclusive interviews, honest banter, and behind-the-scenes insights from some of the game’s biggest names.

From John Terry to Frank Lampard, José Mourinho to Victor Osimhen, Mikel has welcomed a lineup of iconic guests whose stories have entertained and inspired football lovers worldwide.

But in a recent revelation, the Nigerian star shared the name at the very top of his dream guest list — none other than Lionel Messi.

“Lionel Messi,” Mikel said. “Huge fan of his; played against him so many times. The greatest player to ever play football.”

For Mikel, this isn’t just admiration from afar — it’s respect earned on the pitch. His first major encounter with Messi came in the 2005 FIFA U-20 World Cup in the Netherlands, a tournament where both youngsters announced themselves to the world. Messi walked away with the Golden Ball, while Mikel claimed the Silver Ball — setting the tone for two remarkable careers that would later intersect several times, from international fixtures to club competitions.

Mikel also expressed his gratitude for the success of his podcast so far, highlighting Mourinho and Terry as two of his favorite interviews. Still, he admits that having Messi on the show would be the ultimate dream come true.

With The Obi One Podcast growing in global recognition, football fans may just see that dream become reality sooner than expected.


At Sports Market International, we celebrate football’s finest moments, the legends who shaped the game, and the growing sports media market that continues to bring fans closer to their heroes. For the best sports stories, insights, and player features — stay connected with us, your home for the best sports blog experience.

Abdul Noah Ocholi

Recent Posts

Ndidi’s Emotional Return: Besiktas Star Delivers Masterclass After Personal Tragedy

There are football moments that go far beyond tactics and scorelines — and Wilfred Ndidi…

16 minutes ago

Mayweather Vs Pacquiao 2: Boxing Legends Set For Historic Netflix Showdown In Las Vegas

The boxing world is bracing for another seismic moment as icons Floyd Mayweather Jr. and…

19 minutes ago

Barcelona Eye Breakout Mexican Striker Armando González In Summer Search

Barcelona have added rising Mexican forward Armando González to their striker shortlist as the club…

2 hours ago

Osimhen Salary Rumours Dismissed As Galatasaray Star Focuses On Juventus Clash

Speculation around Victor Osimhen’s salary at Galatasaray has been firmly shut down, with respected Turkish…

2 hours ago

Alex Iwobi: The Manager’s Dream Lighting Up Fulham’s Season

When a seasoned analyst like Jamie Carragher calls a player a “manager’s dream,” you know…

23 hours ago

Angry Arne Slot Slams Liverpool’s ‘Worst Performance’ Despite Late Win At Nottingham Forest

Arne Slot did not hold back after Liverpool escaped with a dramatic 1-0 victory over…

24 hours ago