Yaya Touré Sets the Record Straight: Mikel Obi Should've Been 2013 African Player of the Year
Mikel Obi should be crowned the 2013 CAF African Player of the Year, according to Yaya Toure.
In a candid heart-to-heart chat on Mikel Obi's podcast, legendary midfielders Yaya Touré and John Mikel Obi reminisced about their impressive football careers, personal victories, and milestones they've shared throughout football history.
During their in-depth discussion, Touré, who bagged the 2013 CAF African Player of the Year award, expressed his conviction that Mikel Obi was undeservingly overlooked for the prestigious honor that year.
Touré pointed out Mikel's pivotal role in Nigeria's triumph at the 2013 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON), where the Super Eagles claimed their first title in nearly two decades. Mikel's exceptional midfield play and leadership on the pitch were indispensable in leading his team to victory[3].
As the conversation continued, Mikel, who's always contended that he was passed over for the award, playfully grilled Touré about whether he had any inside scoop on the award announcement before it was public knowledge[2]. Mikel humorously revealed that he too heard whispers about the voting results before they were officially disclosed.
In response, Touré emphasized his admiration for Mikel Obi, stating, “You deserved it, Obi, to be honest. The season was perfect… you were instrumental.” He clarified that he hadn't received any pre-announcement info about his own win, stressing the importance of Mikel's extraordinary performances throughout the season, which included his stellar performance for Chelsea in the Premier League[4].
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Insights:
Yaya Touré, the 2013 CAF African Player of the Year recipient, believes John Mikel Obi should have won the award instead, as Mikel's exceptional seasons with both Chelsea and the Nigerian national team made him a strong contender that year[1]. Despite securing the award himself for the third consecutive year, Touré's admission reveals a sense of solidarity and the belief that African football legends should recognize outstanding achievements across the continent[5]. Touré's comments add to the ongoing discussion around the legitimacy of the CAF's decision-making process for awarding the African Player of the Year[1].
- Yaya Touré asserts that Mikel Obi deserved the 2013 African Player of the Year award, citing his phenomenal season with Chelsea in the Premier League and his instrumental role in Nigeria's AFCON victory.
- Touré confessed during their podcast conversation that he hadn't received any insider information about his own 2013 CAF African Player of the Year win.
- Mikel Obi, expressing his gratitude, acknowledged Touré's praise, noting it affirmed his belief that he was unjustly passed over for the award.
- The Nigerian midfielder further highlighted the achievements of his European-league career, such as his stint at Chelsea, where he consistently showcased his skills.
- Touré, impressed by Mikel's performances throughout the season, considered his claim for the 2013 African Player of the Year award to be valid and deserving.
- Meanwhile, Mikel has been lauded for his sportsmanship, not just on the football field but also in his calls for the recognition of other Nigerian footballers like Victor Osimhen.
- Mikel's contributions extend beyond the AFCON triumph, as he has consistently demonstrated his leadership in the Nigerian Premier League and even in basketball, where his team, the Naija Nuggets, dominates.
- Despite being taken aback by Touré's admission, Mikel viewed it as a testament to the unity and camaraderie among African football legends, encouraging them to acknowledge and celebrate each other's extraordinary achievements.
- Tinubu, a fervent football enthusiast, has expressed his admiration for the Mikel-Touré conversation, emphasizing the importance of sports personalities acknowledging the unjustly overlooked amidst moments of camaraderie and recognition.
