Following the Eagles' loss to Croatia in their opening game of the 2018 FIFA World Cup, the Franco-German was heavily criticized by Manchester United boss Jose Mourinho over his decision to stick with the Tianjin Teda star as an offensive midfielder at the Mundial.
The "Special One" opined that Mikel was a bad number 10 during his time at Chelsea.
"Mikel did very well in the World Cup qualifiers as number 10. In the first game against Croatia, he played at offensive midfield. Against Iceland we switched pattern to 3-5-2 and Mikel played as a defensive midfield. He did very well," the Franco-German said at Friday's press conference attended by allnigeriasoccer.com.
"Victor Moses did the same. Each match has a new history. It is good to have players adjust to different positions.
''I hope those that are unavailable for the game against Seychelles comeback and show their fitness, experience and qualities when they return to our team.
The former Niger Republic gaffer further clarified his "mind your business" spree with Mourinho.
"I don't comment on what other coaches say. Mikel did very well at offensive midfield position for us during the World Cup qualifiers.
''Sometimes when the players are here they come in a different situation like they have in the clubs and can justify to play in other positions," he added.
Premier League giants Arsenal have reportedly informed teenage Nigerian forward Nefeye Osaze that he will not be offered a new contract ahead of the 2026-2027 season.It is the time of year when Englis...
Allnigeriasoccer.com can exclusively report with certainty that Slovak First Football League clubs AS Trencin are on the brink of announcing the signings of two highly-rated Nigerian wingers, Nentaka ...
Football rarely stands still. Every match hides a rhythm that shifts with energy levels, motivation, and strategy. What looked sharp one week can fade when fatigue arrives. Bettors who read these tran...
The Royal Spanish Football Federation are poised to win the recruitment battle for highly rated forward Edna Imade, who has also drawn interest from the Nigeria Football Federation.Imade is eligible t...
November 21, 2025
🍪 Cookie Preferences
We use cookies to enhance your browsing experience. Choose your preference:
Comments 0
Leave a Comment
No comments yet. Be the first to comment!