‘Why not Obi Mikel?’ - Chelsea slammed for snubbing Super Eagles legend for Nigeria visit
Chelsea has come under criticism from Nigerian fans after omitting Super Eagles legend John Obi Mikel from its upcoming fan engagement event in Lagos.
The Premier League club recently confirmed that Lagos will host its inaugural official fan event in Nigeria this May, as part of its global tour tagged “The Famous CFC.”
However, the announcement has sparked debate online, with many supporters questioning why Mikel was not included.
Victor Moses headlines Chelsea’s Lagos event
Instead, the club revealed that former winger Victor Moses will headline the event.
The weekend-long programme will feature: Live match screening, Fan engagement activities, Q&A session with Moses and opportunities to win signed Chelsea merchandise.
The Famous CFC is heading to Lagos. 🌍
— Chelsea FC (@ChelseaFC) April 2, 2026
Register your interest for our global fan experience, hosted by Chelsea legend Victor Moses. 🇳🇬
Moses, was a key figure in Chelsea’s 2016/17 Premier League-winning squad, remains a fan favourite. He also enjoyed a successful international career, winning the 2013 Africa Cup of Nations with Nigeria and featuring in two FIFA World Cups.
Fans React
Despite Moses’ credentials, many Nigerian fans believe Mikel’s legacy at Chelsea makes him a more fitting choice.
One fan wrote: “Why are they not using John Obi Mikel for this tour? Mikel is a bigger Nigerian legend than Victor Moses. And it's not even close.”
Why are they not using John Obi Mikel for this tour? 🤔
— Vince™ (@Blue_Footy) April 2, 2026
Mikel is a bigger Nigerian legend than Victor Moses. And it's not even close. https://t.co/cKJX7pbtRY
They are using Victor Moses for the visit to Lagos instead of John Mikel Obi, who is more of a Chelsea legend than the former.
— Mr Junior Ebong🧛♂️🇱🇮 (@Optimus_Dracula) April 2, 2026
Guess why?
You guessed right: they don’t want anyone who openly speaks against them.
Moses is definitely not a Chelsea legend …
— CFC_Franz (@CFC_Franz_) April 2, 2026
Is Victor Moses a Chelsea legend?
— Ibukun Ebenezer (@WordIntegrity_2) April 2, 2026
Where will you rank him /10?
Big disrespect to Mikel! And no disrespect to Moses, love him.
— Seankay (@seankay045) April 3, 2026
Mikel’s Chelsea legacy still resonates
John Obi Mikel remains one of the most decorated African players in Chelsea’s history.
During his time at the club, he: Won the UEFA Champions League (2012), claimed two Premier League titles, lifted multiple domestic and European trophies and made over 350 appearances.