The Obi One Podcast

He's a Treble winner and fourth on the Premier League's all-time scoring list with 187 goals. Introducing the latest guest on the Obi One Podcast: Manchester United legend Andy Cole. ‘Coley' sits down with John Obi Mikel and Chris McHardy to reflect on the highs - and lows - from his career on and off the pitch. He sets the record straight on what really happened at Newcastle and why he hasn't spoken to Kevin Keegan since. What were his first impressions of Manchester United, Sir Alex Ferguson and a certain Eric Cantona? And, what does he make of today's United and Ruben Amorim? Cole also famously shunned penalty kicks, scoring just once from the spot in the Premier League. But why? The former striker reveals all. Plus, Cole also lifts the lid on his health battle off the field and a betrayal that left him questioning everything. This is the real Andy Cole. Unapologetic and authentic. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Arsenal Fan TV host Robbie Lyle is the latest guest to join John Obi Mikel and Chris McHardy on the Obi One Podcast, and as you'd expect, it's full of passion and disagreements! Robbie has built AFTV into the biggest fan network in the world and is well-versed in defending his team to the hilt, even in the face of a Chelsea great. In this episode, Robbie reflects on the tenure of Mikel Arteta, ponders whether he is still the right man for the job and discusses what is needed in the summer transfer window. Robbie and John also deliberate over a combined Chelsea-Arsenal XI, which leads to one astonishing omission. https://www.instagram.com/obionepodcast?igsh=MWNzbHVocHdzeWZwdA== https://x.com/obionepodcast?s=21 https://www.facebook.com/share/1AJ7ZPB4Cp/?mibextid=wwXIfr Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

It's a case of ‘I told you so' for Chelsea legend John Obi Mikel as his former side achieve their No1 ambition this season of qualifying for the UEFA Champions League. Mikel reflects on their win at Nottingham Forest on the final day, plus he looks ahead to their Europa League Conference showdown with Real Betis. John and Chris also have praise for Ange Postecoglou, preview PSG v Inter Milan in the Champions League Final and pick their Premier League Team of the Season. Just how many Chelsea players does John manage to squeeze into his starting XI? https://www.instagram.com/obionepodcast?igsh=MWNzbHVocHdzeWZwdA== https://x.com/obionepodcast?s=21 https://www.facebook.com/share/1AJ7ZPB4Cp/?mibextid=wwXIfr Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Former Manchester United and Portugal winger Nani joins John Obi Mikel and Chris McHardy on a brand new episode of the Obi One Podcast. From his tough upbringing in Lisbon to lighting up the Theatre of Dreams with his dazzling array of skills, Nani opens up on a wide range of subjects, including his close relationship with Cristiano Ronaldo, revealing just how competitive his compatriot can be. He also reminisces about a hilarious trip with boss Sir Alex Ferguson and explains how his son has been trolling him with YouTube clips of Lionel Messi! https://www.instagram.com/obionepodcast?igsh=MWNzbHVocHdzeWZwdA== https://x.com/obionepodcast?s=21 https://www.facebook.com/share/1AJ7ZPB4Cp/?mibextid=wwXIfr Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

John Obi Mikel and Chris McHardy reunite to preview the biggest week of Chelsea's season: away to Nottingham Forest for a place in the UEFA Champions League before a date with Real Betis in the Europa Conference League showpiece. John sticks to his guns on his former club, gives his verdict on Enzo Maresca's future at the club and offers some friendly advice to Nicolas Jackson. He's far from happy with Erling Haaland, has special praise for Marc Cucurella and makes a final plea on behalf a certain Victor Osimhen. All in the latest episode of Taking the Mikel. https://www.instagram.com/obionepodcast?igsh=MWNzbHVocHdzeWZwdA== https://x.com/obionepodcast?s=21 https://www.facebook.com/share/1AJ7ZPB4Cp/?mibextid=wwXIfr Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

They are the Premier League's most prolific strike partnership this season with 36 goals between them, and they're the latest guests on the Obi One Podcast. Introducing Brentford's dynamic duo Bryan Mbeumo and Yoane Wissa. John Obi Mikel and Chris McHardy are at Brentford's training ground to find out a little more about what makes Bryan and Yoane tick. From their friendship off to pitch, to their devastating relationship on it, the pair open up on a whole host of subjects including life under Thomas Frank, their ambitions for the future and their toughest opponent in the Premier League. Flying the flags for Cameroon and the Democratic Republic of Congo respectively, Mbeumo and Wissa also discuss their international ambitions and explain why success with their countries will always take precedent over club glory. An in-depth discussion with two of the Premier League's most underrated and assuming stars. Enjoy! https://www.instagram.com/obionepodcast?igsh=MWNzbHVocHdzeWZwdA== https://x.com/obionepodcast?s=21 https://www.facebook.com/share/1AJ7ZPB4Cp/?mibextid=wwXIfr Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In the latest episode of the Obi One Podcast, John Obi Mikel and Chris McHardy track down one of the greatest midfielders of his generation. A treble winner with Barcelona and one of the catalysts for Manchester City's recent dominance. It's Yaya Touré. Hailed by John as ‘the most complete African footballer to ever grace the Premier League, Touré cuts a laid back figure as he opens up on his early days at Barcelona, and how set about adapting to the demands of playing for ‘Més que un club', which included a reluctant date with a certain Cristiano Ronaldo. Touré also gives his verdict on Pep Guardiola's role in changing the game as we know it, reveals just how close he came to joining his ‘dream club' Arsenal and lifts the lid on his relationship with fellow Ivorian, Didier Drogba. And there's a bombshell admission to boot as well as he reveals the shock club he almost joined before land. https://www.instagram.com/obionepodcast?igsh=MWNzbHVocHdzeWZwdA== https://x.com/obionepodcast?s=21 https://www.facebook.com/share/1AJ7ZPB4Cp/?mibextid=wwXIfr Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Dries Mertens sits down with our very own John Obi Mikel to discuss life in Turkey with Galatasaray. The Belgian forward also reflects on finally ending Napoli's 33 year wait for the Scudetto, explains why there was no problem with Eden Hazard in the Belgium set up and reserves special praise for team-mate Victor Osimhen. He may be 37 now, but Dries Mertens - Napoli's all-time leading goalscorer with 148 goals - still has plenty left to achieve in the game. Enjoy! https://www.instagram.com/obionepodcast?igsh=MWNzbHVocHdzeWZwdA== https://x.com/obionepodcast?s=21 https://www.facebook.com/share/1AJ7ZPB4Cp/?mibextid=wwXIfr Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

John Obi Mikel and Chris McHardy reunite to reflect on Chelsea's 1-0 win over Tottenham and goalless draw at Brentford - two results that have breathed new life into their Champions League hopes. What is Christopher Nkunku's best position? And is Trevoh Chalobah the answer to Chelsea's centre-back conundrum? John gives his verdict while he finally gives Nicolas Jackson his flowers! Kevin De Bruyne's imminent Manchester City exit is another topic for conversation while John says it's Okan Buruk who should be embarrassed and NOT José Mourinho after their comedic spat in Turkey. https://www.instagram.com/obionepodcast?igsh=MWNzbHVocHdzeWZwdA== https://x.com/obionepodcast?s=21 https://www.facebook.com/share/1AJ7ZPB4Cp/?mibextid=wwXIfr Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

At just 17 years and eight months, Mamadou Sakho became Paris Saint Germain - and Ligue 1's - youngest ever captain. A move to Liverpool followed where he would earn the nickname ‘The Killer'. Now plying his trade in Tbilisi, Georgia while managing a successful property business, Sakho joins John Obi Mikel to look back on his nomadic career. The no-nonsense defender gives his verdict on Steven Gerrard's infamous slip. Did it cost Liverpool the title? Who was his toughest opponent and what is Zlatan Ibrahimovic like as a team-mate? Sakho also has a message for Kylian Mbappé and outlines why he's never, EVER allowed to utter the words ‘Manchester United.' Don't miss it. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

In this latest episode of the Obi One Podcast, John Obi Mikel reunites with his former Nigeria team-mate and a man he considers his ‘little brother': Victor Osimhen. Things have changed dramatically for the 2023 African Footballer of the Year since we last caught up with him having swapped Napoli for Galatasaray. Back scoring goals, and more importantly, enjoying his football again, Osimhen opens up on life in Turkey, why he's so grateful to Gala's fanatical support and outlines his ambitions for the future. Osimhen also reflects on his time at Napoli, the lessons he learned under boss Luciano Spalletti and why former team-mate Khvicha Kvaratskhelia is ready to propel PSG to European glory. ttps://www.instagram.com/obionepodcast?igsh=MWNzbHVocHdzeWZwdA== https://x.com/obionepodcast?s=21 https://www.facebook.com/share/1AJ7ZPB4Cp/?mibextid=wwXIfr Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Back to back Premier League wins for Chelsea have John Obi Mikel smiling again. That is, until Chris McHardy informs him of the Blues' fixture list in the run in. gulp John also gives his verdict on Arsenal's title ambitions after two more dropped points at Manchester United, and breaks why he think the title will be heading to West London before it ever goes North. https://www.instagram.com/obionepodcast?igsh=MWNzbHVocHdzeWZwdA== https://x.com/obionepodcast?s=21 https://www.facebook.com/share/1AJ7ZPB4Cp/?mibextid=wwXIfr Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Season 3 of the Obi One Podcast made possible by Betwinner is here, and we're kicking it off in the company of former Liverpool and Netherlands forward Ryan Babel. The Dutchman talks to John Obi Mikel and Chris McHardy about how lonely he felt at Liverpool, his struggles with Rafael Benitez and why Steven Gerrard is the best he ever played with. Babel also shares his experiences as a young teammate of Zlatan Ibrahimovic, explains the ONE mistake Arne Slot has avoided in order to be a success at Liverpool and reveals why he fears the worst for Joshua Zirkzee at Manchester United. == Thanks to our proud sponsors Betwinner | Betwinner.com https://www.instagram.com/obionepodcast?igsh=MWNzbHVocHdzeWZwdA== https://x.com/obionepodcast?s=21 https://www.facebook.com/share/1AJ7ZPB4Cp/?mibextid=wwXIfr Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

John Obi Mikel is angry. Irate in fact. Watch as he hits back at Jamie Carragher's assertion that the African Cup of Nations is not a “major tournament”with a passionate defence of the competition and it's standing in the game. The Chelsea great, who captained Nigeria to success in the tournament back in 2013, does not hold back! John also has his say on the racism storm engulfing Jose Mourinho in Turkey, and has a message for journalists chasing him for comment. An explosive Taking the Mikel. One not to be missed. https://www.instagram.com/obionepodcast?igsh=MWNzbHVocHdzeWZwdA== https://x.com/obionepodcast?s=21 https://www.facebook.com/share/1AJ7ZPB4Cp/?mibextid=wwXIfr Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

‘I'm just a fan who wants the best for my club.' John Obi Mikel makes an impassioned defence of his recent criticism of this current Chelsea side. Back-to-back defeats to Brighton coupled with Nicolas Jackson's injury has him asking serious questions of the club's recruitment policy and he hits out at the notion that the Blues are ahead of schedule in their bid to return to the Champions League. As always, it's forthright stuff from the former Chelsea No12. https://www.instagram.com/obionepodcast?igsh=MWNzbHVocHdzeWZwdA== https://x.com/obionepodcast?s=21 https://www.facebook.com/share/1AJ7ZPB4Cp/?mibextid=wwXIfr Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

John Obi Mikel and Chris McHardy review Chelsea's 2-1 win over West Ham - a game that through up more questions than answers. Where is the Jadon Sancho of earlier this season, and are the Blues now too reliant on Cole Palmer? Mikel also discusses his reunion with John Terry and gives his verdict on the transfer deadline day deals at the Bridge, including Joao Felix's departure for AC Milan that has Mikel scratching his head. And what of Marcus Rashford's much talked about move to Aston Villa. Will he rediscover his scoring boots under Unai Emery? https://www.instagram.com/obionepodcast?igsh=MWNzbHVocHdzeWZwdA== https://x.com/obionepodcast?s=21 https://www.facebook.com/share/1AJ7ZPB4Cp/?mibextid=wwXIfr Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

History made for the Obi One Podcast as we bring you our first ever Taking the Mikel Live event in Dubai, brought to you by BetWinner. John Obi Mikel and Chris McHardy are joined by over 200 fans from Chelsea's official Supporters Club in the UAE for an intimate evening of revelations, insights and laughter. Recorded prior to Chelsea's 3-1 defeat at Manchester City, John reveals the truth behind his Manchester United snub, makes a candid admission about his relationship with José Mourinho and gets emotional as opens up on the 2010 kidnapping of his father. John also gives his verdict on Robert Sanchez's recent woes and doubles down on his Nicholas Jackson stance. PLUS Chelsea fans get their chance to quiz the Blues legend. https://www.facebook.com/share/1AJ7ZPB4Cp/?mibextid=wwXIfr https://x.com/obionepodcast?s=21 https://www.instagram.com/obionepodcast?igsh=MWNzbHVocHdzeWZwdA== Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

John Obi Mikel and Chris McHardy pick the bones out of Chelsea's first match of 2025 as their winless run in the league stretches to four matches after a 1-1 draw at Crystal Palace. ‘Hard work' is John's buzzword as Nicolas Jackson's lean spell continues, plus Enzo Maresca's apparent aversion to substitutions also comes under the microscope as does an injury that threatens to derail the Blues' season. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

John Obi Mikel and Chris McHardy kickstart 2025 by looking back over a festive period that wasn't kind to Chelsea - or Manchester United. John also has his say on Noni Madueke's recent troubles, his January transfer wish list and weights in on the nightmare that has befallen Ruben Amorim's start to life at Manchester United. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

John Obi Mikel and Chris McHardy welcome Arsenal and England great Sol Campbell onto the Obi One Podcast, and the former defender doesn't disappoint. Campbell, an Invincible with the Gunners in 2003-04, opens up on a range of subjects, from turning his back on management to why he doesn't believe he gets the credit he deserves. The 73-capped star also unpacks the story of his controversial move from Tottenham to rivals Arsenal and details the underhand tactics that led to his contentious switch across North London. Sol Campbell: unfiltered. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

John Obi Mikel and Chris McHardy are in London for this week's Taking the Mikel episode. John meets Chelsea co-owner Behdad Eghbali and enjoys his hospitality as the Blues claim a 2-1 home win over Brentford. So what's he really like? John reveals all plus the guys discuss Mykhailo Mudryk's shock failed drugs test and it's possible ramifications for the player and the club. And there's plenty of festive cheer as John reminisces about Christmas at the club. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Steven Bartlett; entrepreneur, speaker, investor, author and the host of the popular ‘The Diary of a CEO' podcast, is our latest special guest on the Obi One Podcast. Steven talks candidly about the experiences and decisions that shaped his life and career, and reveals the secrets behind his hugely popular podcast. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

In this episode of the Obi One Podcast John Obi Mikel and Chris McHardy sit down with one of the greatest commentators ever, Martin Tyler, to discuss life in the gantry. From being the voice of Sky Sports' football coverage for over 25 years to delivering some of the greatest lines in Premier League history, including the most famous of them all: ‘Aggggüüüeeeerrrrooooo'. Who can forget it? In this, at times emotional, interview, Martin opens up on the secrets of his craft, his legendary partnership with Andy Gray and his tumultuous exit from Sky. It's a must-watch for the footballing purists out there. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

John Obi Mikel has his say on Chelsea's 1-1 draw with old rivals Arsenal. From some ‘friendly' advice for ex-Blue Kai Havertz to question marks over Robert Sanchez's suitability as the club's long-term No1. John also opines about Cole Palmer's quiet afternoon and asks for more in the big games from Chelsea's main man. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Matchroom CEO Eddie Hearn is one of the most influential figures in boxing, and he's the latest guest on the Obi One Podcast with John Obi Mikel and Chris McHardy. Eddie opens up on life in the industry, the lessons he learned from his father Barry, Turki Alalshikh's role in shaping the sport's future and answers the burning question: will Anthony Joshua and Tyson Fury ever fight? As for the possibility of him one day becoming owner of a football club, Eddie gives his verdict. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Fresh from his appearance at the Ballon d'Or ceremony, Chelsea great John Obi Mikel aims both barrels at Real Madrid, settles on Enzo Maresca's ideal midfield pairing and gives his verdict on Europe's hottest striker right now. So who gets his vote? Sporting's goal machine Viktor Gyökeres or fellow Nigerian, Victor Osimhen? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

He's the man who has a position named after him, and he's also the latest guest on the Obi One Podcast. Introducing the one and only Claude Makélélé. The former midfield metronome looks back on his career, from being unceremoniously jettisoned by Real Madrid to finding a home at Chelsea. He also opens up on the qualities needed for his position, what made Zinedine Zidane so unique and why he wasn't as quiet as some may think. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

John Obi Mikel and Chris McHardy are in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia for an exclusive, in-depth interview with Chelsea's former Technical Director Michael Emenalo. In this wide-ranging conversation, Emenalo gives fascinating insight into his new role as Director of Football for the Saudi Pro League, what the job entails and what the overall vision is for the big-spending league. Was Kylian Mbappé ever a genuine target, how close did Victor Osimhen come to a move to the Kingdom and how likely is a future deal for Liverpool and Egypt superstar Mohamed Salah? Emenalo also reminisces about his time at Chelsea - from his relationship with Roman Abramovich to the two surprising transfer targets that got away. It's all in there. The Obi One Podcast in conversation with Michael Emenalo. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Chelsea great John Obi Mikel has a smile on his face after Cole Palmer's four-goal masterclass against Brighton. But he is calling for calm. And there's good reason. John also picks through the wreckage of Manchester United's 3-0 demolition at the hands of Tottenham and believes it's time for a former Chelsea boss to come out of hibernation and take up the reins at Old Trafford. But do you agree? Comment below.

Manchester United legend Patrice Evra reflects on his illustrious career in this hilarious sit-down with John Obi Mikel and Chris McHardy. ‘Pat' opens up on why he wanted to quit United just days after joining, his unique relationship with Sir Alex Ferguson and reveals some of the secrets from the inner sanctum. Evra also reveals just how close he came to fighting Luis Suarez in a department store and makes a bold claim about two blockbuster signings United almost pulled off before Fergie's shock retirement in 2013. An absolute must watch for not only fans of Manchester United but fans who “love this game”. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Chelsea legend John Obi Mikel delivers his verdict after his former side's 3-0 at West Ham. He devours a huge slice of humble pie after Nicolas Jackson's two-goal showing plus he can't hide his excitement as Moisés Caicedo finally shows his true colours. As for Arsenal's gamesmanship against Manchester City, John is under no illusions they learnt from the best: his Chelsea side - the original masters of the “dark arts”. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

In this episode of Taking the Mikel, John Obi Mikel reflects on Chelsea's hard-fought 1-0 win at Bournemouth. His verdict on Jadon Sancho's match-winning cameo and why there are shades of Chelsea's past with Messrs Drogba and Terry. Also, is Christopher Nkunku the answer to the Blues profligacy in front of goal? John also discusses the North London Derby and gives both barrels to Spurs defender Cristian Romero. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Former Chelsea captain Gary Cahill joins the Obi One Podcast to reminisce about his trophy-laden seven years at Stamford Bridge. From silencing the doubters to winning over José Mourinho, Cahill opens up on what life was REALLY like playing for the Blues. He also pulls no punches in his critique of one former boss and his ‘boring' style. Not one to miss! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

In the latest episode of Taking the Mikel, the fellas take advantage of the international break to assess Nigeria's fortunes on and off the pitch. John Obi Mikel delivers his verdict on the Super Eagles' unbeaten start to their African Cup of Nations qualifying campaign and the hullabaloo surrounding their vacant managerial position. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Chelsea great John Obi Mikel lifts the lid on what REALLY happened on transfer deadline day as his former club chased the signature of Victor Osimhen. Just how involved was he trying to lure his fellow Nigerian to Stamford Bridge? How close was the deal? And what now that Osimhen is off to Galatasaray? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

In this latest episode of the Obi One Podcast, John and Chris are in Doha to speak to BeIN Sports' duo Richard Keys and Andy Gray. In this warts ‘n all conversation, Richard and Andy are incredibly candid about their controversial exit from Sky Sports in 2011, the mental toll it took on them and the anger they still feel over the way it was handled. The duo also give their thoughts on Manchester City's domination, what's really going on at Manchester United and why they hand no plans to hang up their mics just yet. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

There really was only one place to start in this week's Taking the Mikel episode.

In his latest Taking the Mikel podcast, former Chelsea midfielder John Obi Mikel weighs in on the future of Raheem Sterling after his shock omission from Chelsea's squad for their Premier League opener. Is there more to the story? And what's next? John also gives his verdict on the overall performance in Chelsea's the 2-0 defeat to Manchester City, and questions the decision to appoint Enzo Fernandez as captain. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Arsenal and France legend Robert Pires is the latest big-name to join the Obi One Podcast as he opens up on life with the Gunners. From his relationship with Ashley Cole and Thierry Henry to the leadership of Patrick Vieira, Pires reminisces about the glory days at both Highbury and the Emirates. Arsenal's Invincibles versus Man Utd's Treble winners? Pires delivers his verdict on that, plus he discusses his relationship with Arsene Wenger, his admiration for Dennis Bergkamp and the penalty miss that he'll never live down. And what of assessment of today's Arsenal and what is missing in their quest to win a first Premier League title since 2004? He reveals all. An absolute must-watch for football fans let alone Arsenal supporters. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

In this Taking the Mikel episode, John Obi Mikel looks ahead to the brand new English Premier League season. He gives his verdict on Chelsea's pre-season form, makes an impassioned plea to Blues target Victor Osimhen and questions the club's desire to get rid of two players who “bleed blue”: Trevor Chalobah and Conor Gallagher. Mikel also calls on African Football Associations to up their game if players are to entice talent in the future to pledge their international allegiance to them. Hard-hitting stuff from the man who led Nigeria to African Cup of Nations glory back in 2013! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

In another exclusive for the Obi One Podcast, John and Chris are in the Spanish capital to speak to none other than Real Madrid boss Carlo Ancelotti. Fresh from a record-extending fifth European Cup triumph as manager, Don Carlo was only too willing to open the doors to Real's training ground for this wide-ranging and illuminating hour-long sit down. In it, Ancelotti lifts the lid on his approach to management, has some sage advice to young coaches setting out and discusses how he'll fit new summer signing Kylian Mbappé into his Real line-up next season. The Italian also talks candidly about a raft of his former charges from Toni Kroos to Cristiano Ronaldo and from Eden Hazard to Gareth Bale. It's not one you'll want to miss! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

In this latest episode of Taking the Mikel, John Obi and Chris find themselves in Madrid, Spain as they sit down with a familiar face. All will be revealed! Also in this edition, John Obi gives his verdict on the controversy surrounding current Chelsea star Enzo Fernandez, makes an impassioned defence of African football AND endorses a former Blues boss as Gareth Southgate's England successor. Any guesses? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Olympic legend Usain Bolt joins the Obi One Podcast for an exclusive, in-depth look back on his illustrious career. How did he deal with pressure, who was his greatest rival and was his showmanship merely an act? The Jamaican icon reveals all in conversation with John Obi Mikel and Chris McHardy. He also discusses a human's limitations, makes a startling admission about his run at the Beijing Olympics in 2008 and delivers his verdict on his beloved Manchester United's decision to stick with boss Erik Ten Hag. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

In the latest Taking the Mikel episode, John and Chris discuss new Chelsea boss Enzo Maresca and his transfer priorities this summer. John also details the genius of Carlo Ancelotti, delivers a warning to José Mourinho and reveals why he might just be back on Sir Alex Ferguson's Christmas card list.  Download and subscribe to the Obi One Podcast now and follow us on social media: @obionepodcast Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

Chelsea's greatest ever goalkeeper, Petr Cech, joins John and Chris on Episode 12 of the Obi One Podcast. The Czech man mountain details what made José Mourinho's Chelsea so special, opens up on the full extent of the sickening head injury that changed his outlook on life and why Champions League glory as a boardroom executive is his favourite memory at Stamford Bridge. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

In the aftermath of Chelsea's extra time defeat to Liverpool in the EFL Cup Final, John gives his verdict. Was Gary Neville right to call the Blues bottlejobs? And what now for Mauricio Pochettino? The big man has his say. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

In his first in-depth interview since his shock retirement last year, Eden Hazard opens up about his career like never before with John and Chris. From snubbing Sir Alex Ferguson to what life was REALLY like at Chelsea. The Belgian magician also explains why Zinedine Zidane - and not Lionel Messi or Cristiano Ronaldo - is the greatest footballer of all time, why he has no regrets over his time at Real Madrid and calls out Cristiano Ronaldo on his bold Saudi Pro League claim. Oh, and then there's his well-publicised love of rice pudding! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit podcastchoices.com/adchoices

In this episode of Taking the Mikel, John and Chris react to Nigeria's run to the AFCON semi-finals and pick their best African XI of players who've plied their trade in the Premier League. John also makes a hilarious admission about ex-Chelsea star Celestine Babayaro.

In a break from the norm, Episode 10 features our first non-Chelsea or Nigeria star: it's Rio Ferdinand. Hear from the Manchester United legend as he discusses his battles with Chelsea, his run-ins with Sir Alex, the brilliance of Paul Scholes and Erik ten Hag's immediate future.

Episode 9 features a player former Chelsea team-mates affectionately nicknamed “Zizou”. It's the one and only, Joe Cole. A boyhood Blues fan, Cole is in superb form in as he opens on a variety of topics in studio with John Obi Mikel. From turning down Sir Alex Ferguson to Claudio Ranieri's hilarious sales pitch to take him to the Bridge. There's the fall outs with Jose Mourinho (and there are many), why he'd never join Tottenham and the real reason Eden Hazard joined Chelsea. And, yes, Joe is taking some of the credit! Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices

Taking the Mikel: Sunday Oliseh, look away now! - Ep.3 Ahead of the upcoming 2024 African Cup of Nations, John Obi Mikel reminisces about leading Nigeria to continental success back in 2013. He then takes aim at a compatriot who he labels the worst manager he's ever come across!