Mikel Retires From National Team

Super Eagles captain Mikel Obi has announced his retirement from the national team.

The 32-year-old retired after the Super Eagles of Nigeria took the third position at the 2019 AFCON.

In a post on his verified Instagram handle, he said, “At the age of 32 it’s time for me to retire from the National team and let the youth take over, who’ve done an amazing job securing a bronze medal at AFCON 2019.”

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The midfielder added that he is announcing his retirement in Egypt, the same country where he started his national career.

“Egypt is a country where I’ve started and have finished my National career. In 2006 I played my first official championship for my Country. 2019 African Cup of Nations marks my last championship for National Team with Super Eagles.

“My national career started in 2003 under 17 World Cup and I’m grateful for the national team for placing me on the world arena and giving me an opportunity to show my skill and have an incredible National and International career.

“At the age of 32 it’s time for me to retire from the National team and let the youth take over, who’ve done an amazing job securing a bronze medal at AFCON 2019.

“Thank you to all my Nigerian supporters and to my Country for all the trust, support and love you’ve shown me over the past 15 years.

“Mikel am out!,” his post read in full.

The midfielder had already announced that the 2019 Africa Cup of Nations in Egypt would be his last appearance on the continental showpiece event.

“I’m mostly here in Egypt to support the young guys and make sure they’re on the right track. It’s been an amazing ride for me in the national team,” Mikel told BBC Sport.

Mikel made 89 appearances for Nigeria between 2005 and 2019, scoring six times.

See below Mikel’s post announcing his retirement…