Mikel Obi becomes first Nigerian player to earn over £100,000 a week

One of John Obi Mikel’s representatives, Babawo Mohammed, has defended the Super Eagles captain’s decision to move to Chinese Super League club, Tianjin TEDA.

Mohammed says it is the right time for the 29-year-old to go for the cash, after winning everything with the Blues.


Mikel Obi’s three-year deal with TEDA, will see him earn £140,000 a week, which is twice what he received at Stamford Bridge.


“I want to congratulate him for being the first Nigerian to earn more than £100,000 a week as far as football is concerned. It is huge, it is historic,” Mohammed said.

“It is not easy for someone to believe in you so much so that he will spend that kind of money on you weekly.

“Let’s celebrate our own, his going to China should not be a subject for debate.

“This is good cash for a player who has won almost everything at club level. He needs the money, not just fame.”

Mikel Obi won the UEFA Champions League, Europa League, Premier League, FA Cup and League Cup during his 10-year stay at Chelsea.