By John Mikel Obi has hit back at Jamie Carragher for downplaying the importance of the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON). Mikel strongly criticized Carragher’s comments made during a live TV broadcast, saying the former England defender has no right to dismiss such a prestigious tournament.
Mikel, who won AFCON with Nigeria in 2013, pointed out that Carragher never won an international trophy himself. “If you’ve never won anything internationally, how can you judge?” Mikel questioned.
Speaking on his podcast, Mikel explained how much AFCON means to him, placing it at the same level as the UEFA Champions League. For Mikel, both trophies represent the peak of his football career.
“I have always said that the Champions League and the Africa Cup of Nations are the two biggest trophies I have won in my career. I have always rated the AFCON on the same level as the Champions League,” Mikel stated.
Carragher’s comments sparked outrage, especially in African football circles. Many fans and former players accused him of disrespecting the history and value of the continent’s biggest football event.
As the debate continues, Mikel’s voice has added weight to the growing backlash against Carragher, reminding everyone that AFCON holds deep meaning for millions of players and fans across Africa.
