Super Eagles captain, Mikel Obi, has said the 2019 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) which kicks off in Egypt on June 21 may be his last.
The 32-year-old former Chelsea star made his international debut in August 2005 against Libya and is hungry to win his second AFCON gold medal.
He won his first winners’ medal six years ago in South Africa after finishing third in 2006 and 2010.
Speaking about his international future, Mikel said that he is uncertain if he will be available for selection for the 2021 AFCON in Cameroon.
“Maybe it’s my last one,” he said. “I’m not sure yet, but at some point, you have to let go. I don’t want to overstay my welcome. Let’s hope we can make it count.”
In Egypt, he will lead a young team with the bulk of the players making their first appearance at this stage of the competition.
“I am hungry to win. I come to win. If not, what’s the point?” Mikel said.
“It will be a tough tournament, but we have quality players, we have trained well. So we have a good chance.”
He has been impressed with the young team who have forged ahead after an early exit at last year’s World Cup in Russia.
“There’s a lot of young players in the team. That’s very good, that means a lot of energy in the team,” said the experienced midfielder, who was not part of the qualifying tournament for this competition after he asked to be left out.
Mikel has enjoyed an illustrious football career with several awards including the Uefa Champions League, Uefa Europa League, two Premier League titles and three FA Cups among other trophies.
