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Nigerian legend John Mikel Obi has refuted reports attributed to him that Cristiano Ronaldo is not amongst the 10 greatest Premier League players.
Nigerian football legend John Mikel Obi has moved to clear the air after being accused of disrespecting Cristiano Ronaldo's legacy, branding reports that he claimed the Portuguese star was not among the Premier League's greatest players as "fake news."
The former Chelsea midfielder was alleged to have stated in an interview that Ronaldo "is not even the top 10 greatest in the Premier League" during his hugely successful spell at Manchester United.
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11:35 - 21.05.2024
Mikel Obi: Super Eagles legend teams up with FIFA President Gianni Infantino in Thailand
Super Eagles of Nigeria legend Mikel Obi teams up with FIFA President Gianni Infantino in Thailand.
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Mikel Obi clears reported Ronaldo comments
The purported quote sparked outrage among fans, with one going as far as to accuse Mikel of being under the influence while making the controversial claim as reported by Pulse Sports.
However, the Nigerian legend has now refuted the reports in a strongly worded statement released via his Instagram account.
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"I apologize for any confusion caused by this statement. We would like to clarify that John Mikel Obi did not make the statement claiming that 'Cristiano Ronaldo is not even top 10 greatest in Premier League history,'” Mikel stated in one of two-page statement on his stories.
“This statement is completely false and should be regarded as fake news."
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The 37-year-old went on to acknowledge Ronaldo's undisputed status as an all-time great of the game after his goal-laden spells with United and current club Al-Nassr.
"We would like to take this opportunity to acknowledge and show utmost respect to Cristiano Ronaldo as a true icon in the world of football," the statement added.
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"Ronaldo's achievements and contributions to the sport, both in the Premier League and beyond, are unparalleled. His exceptional skills, numerous records, and numerous individual and team accolades have solidified his status as one of the greatest football players of all time."
Mikel's firm rebuttal draws a line under an unsavory episode and ensures one of Nigeria's all-time greats is not embroiled in an unnecessary war of words with a genuine icon.
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