John Obi Mikel Defends AFCON and Praises Gravenberch’s Rise at Liverpool

Former Chelsea and Nigeria midfielder John Obi Mikel has hit back at Jamie Carragher over his recent comments about the Africa Cup of Nations AFCON, while also comparing Liverpool’s rising star Ryan Gravenberch to Manchester City’s Rodri.

Mikel Slams Carragher Over AFCON Comments

Jamie Carragher recently sparked controversy by claiming that Mohamed Salah’s chances of winning the ballon d’or are limited because AFCON “doesn't carry the same weight” as the Euros or FIFA World Cup.

Mikel who lifted AFCON in 2013 took strong exception to Carragher’s remarks, delivering fiery response on his Obi One Podcast.

“The Africa Cup of Nations is as big as the Euros, I’ve played in it and won it” Mikel stated, as per Caught Offside.

“It’s not in his f*****g place to discredit AFCON. He sits there week in, week out teaching and coaching people on how to win the Premier League and he never won it! He can f****** off! He’s never won the league. He analyses teams and tells them how to win it but you’ve never won it. You don’t know what it takes to win the f*****g Premier League.”

The former Chelsea star’s comments highlight long standing frustrations about the lack of global respect for AFCON, despite its rich history and competitive level.

Mikel Compares Gravenberch to Rodri

Switching focus to the PL, Mikel has also heaped praise on Liverpool midfielder Ryan Gravenberch likening him to Manchester City’s Rodri.

“When I see player who’s doing so well, I become huge fan” Mikel said on his podcast.

“Gravenberch the way he plays not only defending and breaking up play but also driving the ball forward pushing the team forward… For me, he’s a bit like Rodri.”

Since Arne Slot’s arrival Gravenberch's thrived in deeper midfield role, forming strong trio with Alexis Mac Allister and Dominik Szoboszlai. After struggling for game time under Jurgen Klopp, the 22 year old Dutchman has become crucial figure for Liverpool’s title charge.

Even Slot acknowledged his potential but urged patience.

“There're only few player in the world that can be 9 or 10 every single 3 day”, “If you look at his age he might, might might eventually belong to that group of players. But he’s not there yet which's completely normal” Slot said.

With Liverpool leading the PL by 13 point, Gravenberch’s performances'll be crucial in the final stretch of the season, concerns remain about fatigue and potential injuries prompting discussions about adding midfield reinforcements in the summer.

Khaled Hegazy |

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Journaliste sportif spécialisé dans la couverture du football et la création de contenu numérique, alliant expérience éditoriale et expertise des médias sociaux.