Former Chelsea and England captain, John Terry, as well as other Blues stars, Salomon Kalou have joined the rest of the world in wishing former Super Eagles captain, Mikel Obi, the best for his future after announcing his retirement on Tuesday.

Obi announced his decision to call his professional football career quit after 18 years on his social media handles on Tuesday having last played professionally for Kuwaiti side, Kuwait SC in November 2021.

The 35-year-old Olympic bronze medallist made a total of 372 appearances for Chelsea while scoring six goals and creating 13 assists in 10 seasons with the club winning the UEFA Champions League, Europa League, two Premier League titles, four FA Cup crowns and two Carling Cups. He made a total of 498 appearances at club level for Chelsea, Stoke City, Trabzonspor, Kuwait SC, Middlesborough, Taijin TEDA and Lyn. 

Reacting to news of the retirement, Chelsea tweeted, Enjoy your retirement, @Mikel_John_Obi! Thanks for the memories.”

Mikel’s long serving captain while at Chelsea, John Terry wished him the best for his future, “@mikel_john_obi What a great career my friend, it was a pleasure to play and share the dressing room with you. Love you Georgie Boy.”

Former Chelsea teammate Salomon Kalou added, “OGaaaaaaaaaaaa. I dey miss u Baba Thank u for that wonderful journey. Ps I fancy well well that 1st foto obina,” wrote on Instagram. Ex-Chelsea defender,  Filipe Luis, on Instagram added. “Congrats on your AMAZING career my friend.

It was an honour to play with you.”

The Nigeria Football Federation, UEFA Champions League, Europa League, also celebrated Mikel’s retirement.