‘Osimhen is very humble’ — Mikel defends Super Eagles star, tells him to keep fighting on the pitch

Super Eagles legend John Obi Mikel has come out strongly in defence of Victor Osimhen amid recent controversy, insisting the striker’s fiery edge is part of what makes him special.

Mikel believes Nigeria must protect that fighting spirit as the Super Eagles continue their AFCON 2025 campaign.

Mikel backs Osimhen’s fiery nature

Speaking on his ObiOne Podcast, Mikel offered a passionate defence of the Galatasaray striker, stressing that Osimhen’s aggression and intensity should never be coached out of him.

“Victor Osimhen is a very humble and nice kid, but he plays the way he plays and I don't want to see that taken away from him,” Mikel said. “The way he fights on the pitch… He fights like a lion. I like to see that, I want him to keep that. Don’t take that away from Victor. If you take that away from Victor, you don’t get the best out of him.”

However, the former Chelsea midfielder also admitted Osimhen crossed a line during Nigeria’s 4-0 win over Mozambique, particularly after his heated exchange with Ademola Lookman.

“The part where he stopped playing, running and making efforts; that part I don't like,” Mikel added. “The part where he stood up after the game and walked straight into the dressing room… that part he’ll be the first to say I f***** up.”

Osimhen stays in camp as focus turns to Algeria

Despite reports suggesting Osimhen could leave the Super Eagles camp and return to Turkey, Pulse Sports confirmed the 27-year-old remained with the squad and took part in training.

Channels TV footage later showed him fully engaged with teammates, signalling unity ahead of the quarterfinal clash against Algeria.

The Nigeria Football Federation also issued a statement confirming that all was well within the camp, easing fears that internal tensions could derail the team’s AFCON 2025 ambitions.

Osimhen’s continued presence is a major boost for head coach Eric Chelle, especially with the striker already scoring three goals in the tournament.

With his hold-up play, aerial dominance and chemistry with Lookman and Akor Adams, Osimhen remains central to Nigeria’s quest for a fourth AFCON title and a first since 2013.