Best John Obi Mikel and Chris McHardy Podcasts (2025)

1
Yaya Touré EXCLUSIVE: ‘Ending Cristiano’s dream, my Arsenal love & how I ALMOST joined Drogba at Chelsea 1:01:46

8d ago1:01:46

1:01:46

In the latest episode of the Obi One Podcast, John Obi Mikel and Chris McHardy track down one of the greatest midfielders of his generation. A treble winner with Barcelona and one of the catalysts for Manchester City’s recent dominance. It’s Yaya Touré. Hailed by John as ‘the most complete African footballer to ever grace the Premier League, Touré …

1
Dries Mertens Exclusive: Galatasaray ‘lucky’ to have Osimhen & Hazard ‘not to blame’ for Belgium woes 19:47

22d ago19:47

19:47

Dries Mertens sits down with our very own John Obi Mikel to discuss life in Turkey with Galatasaray. The Belgian forward also reflects on finally ending Napoli’s 33 year wait for the Scudetto, explains why there was no problem with Eden Hazard in the Belgium set up and reserves special praise for team-mate Victor Osimhen. He may be 37 now, but Drie…

1
Nkunku’s time up at Chelsea? | Jackson return | Lampard v De Bruyne | Kalou brain teaser 1:11:33

24d ago1:11:33

1:11:33

John Obi Mikel and Chris McHardy reunite to reflect on Chelsea’s 1-0 win over Tottenham and goalless draw at Brentford - two results that have breathed new life into their Champions League hopes. What is Christopher Nkunku’s best position? And is Trevoh Chalobah the answer to Chelsea’s centre-back conundrum? John gives his verdict while he finally …

1
Mamadou Sakho AKA ‘The Killer’: Gerrard’s slip, Mbappé’s critics & why he can’t say ‘Man Utd’ 1:05:37

25d ago1:05:37

1:05:37

At just 17 years and eight months, Mamadou Sakho became Paris Saint Germain - and Ligue 1’s - youngest ever captain. A move to Liverpool followed where he would earn the nickname ‘The Killer’. Now plying his trade in Tbilisi, Georgia while managing a successful property business, Sakho joins John Obi Mikel to look back on his nomadic career. The no…

1
Victor Osimhen RETURNS: Why He’s Loving Life At Galatasaray | No Chelsea Regrets 37:36

2M ago37:36

37:36

In this latest episode of the Obi One Podcast, John Obi Mikel reunites with his former Nigeria team-mate and a man he considers his ‘little brother’: Victor Osimhen. Things have changed dramatically for the 2023 African Footballer of the Year since we last caught up with him having swapped Napoli for Galatasaray. Back scoring goals, and more import…

1
John Obi Mikel: ‘Chelsea will win the title BEFORE Arsenal’ | Leicester win MASSIVE 46:34

2M ago46:34

46:34

Back to back Premier League wins for Chelsea have John Obi Mikel smiling again. That is, until Chris McHardy informs him of the Blues’ fixture list in the run in. gulp John also gives his verdict on Arsenal’s title ambitions after two more dropped points at Manchester United, and breaks why he think the title will be heading to West London before i…

1
Ryan Babel Exclusive | Slot’s Secret To Success, Zirkzee’s ‘Wrong Choice’ & What Made Gerrard The Best 1:21:40

2M ago1:21:40

1:21:40

Season 3 of the Obi One Podcast made possible by Betwinner is here, and we’re kicking it off in the company of former Liverpool and Netherlands forward Ryan Babel. The Dutchman talks to John Obi Mikel and Chris McHardy about how lonely he felt at Liverpool, his struggles with Rafael Benitez and why Steven Gerrard is the best he ever played with. Ba…

1
How dare he…’ 🤬: Obi Mikel blasts Carragher over AFCON jibe | Mourinho ‘no racist 37:41

2M ago37:41

37:41

John Obi Mikel is angry. Irate in fact. Watch as he hits back at Jamie Carragher’s assertion that the African Cup of Nations is not a “major tournament”with a passionate defence of the competition and it’s standing in the game. The Chelsea great, who captained Nigeria to success in the tournament back in 2013, does not hold back! John also has his …

1
I was right’ 😡: Obi Mikel QUESTIONS recruitment & lambasts UCL plan after Brighton blowouts 58:52

2M ago58:52

58:52

‘I’m just a fan who wants the best for my club.’ John Obi Mikel makes an impassioned defence of his recent criticism of this current Chelsea side. Back-to-back defeats to Brighton coupled with Nicolas Jackson’s injury has him asking serious questions of the club’s recruitment policy and he hits out at the notion that the Blues are ahead of schedule…

1
Chelsea 2-1 West Ham: Felix farce, AWOL Sancho & over-reliance on Palmer 1:05:21

3M ago1:05:21

1:05:21

John Obi Mikel and Chris McHardy review Chelsea’s 2-1 win over West Ham - a game that through up more questions than answers. Where is the Jadon Sancho of earlier this season, and are the Blues now too reliant on Cole Palmer? Mikel also discusses his reunion with John Terry and gives his verdict on the transfer deadline day deals at the Bridge, inc…

1
Taking the Mikel LIVE | Abramovich’s kidnap ‘help’, Sanchez & Jackson cooked + Chelsea fan Q&A 1:15:46

3M ago1:15:46

1:15:46

History made for the Obi One Podcast as we bring you our first ever Taking the Mikel Live event in Dubai, brought to you by BetWinner. John Obi Mikel and Chris McHardy are joined by over 200 fans from Chelsea’s official Supporters Club in the UAE for an intimate evening of revelations, insights and laughter. Recorded prior to Chelsea’s 3-1 defeat a…

1
Mikel’s new Jackson message, Maresca’s substitutions & Fofana blow 1:04:00

4M ago1:04:00

1:04:00

John Obi Mikel and Chris McHardy pick the bones out of Chelsea’s first match of 2025 as their winless run in the league stretches to four matches after a 1-1 draw at Crystal Palace. ‘Hard work’ is John’s buzzword as Nicolas Jackson’s lean spell continues, plus Enzo Maresca’s apparent aversion to substitutions also comes under the microscope as does…

1
Chelsea’s Christmas woes: Mikel laments run of form, Madueke rocket & Man Utd’s ‘f***ing mess’ 1:09:08

4M ago1:09:08

1:09:08

John Obi Mikel and Chris McHardy kickstart 2025 by looking back over a festive period that wasn’t kind to Chelsea - or Manchester United. John also has his say on Noni Madueke’s recent troubles, his January transfer wish list and weights in on the nightmare that has befallen Ruben Amorim’s start to life at Manchester United. Learn more about your a…

1
Sol Campbell exclusive: The REAL story behind Spurs exit, Knighthood plea & Arteta’s Arsenal 1:19:21

4M ago1:19:21

1:19:21

John Obi Mikel and Chris McHardy welcome Arsenal and England great Sol Campbell onto the Obi One Podcast, and the former defender doesn’t disappoint. Campbell, an Invincible with the Gunners in 2003-04, opens up on a range of subjects, from turning his back on management to why he doesn’t believe he gets the credit he deserves. The 73-capped star a…

1
Meeting Behdad Eghbali, Mudryk drug shock & Xmas at Chelsea 50:08

4M ago50:08

50:08

John Obi Mikel and Chris McHardy are in London for this week’s Taking the Mikel episode. John meets Chelsea co-owner Behdad Eghbali and enjoys his hospitality as the Blues claim a 2-1 home win over Brentford. So what’s he really like? John reveals all plus the guys discuss Mykhailo Mudryk’s shock failed drugs test and it’s possible ramifications fo…

1
The Diary of a CEO’s Steven Bartlett talks success & failure with John Obi Mikel 46:35

5M ago46:35

46:35

Steven Bartlett; entrepreneur, speaker, investor, author and the host of the popular ‘The Diary of a CEO’ podcast, is our latest special guest on the Obi One Podcast. Steven talks candidly about the experiences and decisions that shaped his life and career, and reveals the secrets behind his hugely popular podcast. Learn more about your ad choices.…

1
‘The Voice of Football’: Raw emotion as Martin Tyler talks THAT Agüero goal & Sky Sports exit 1:22:38

5M ago1:22:38

1:22:38

In this episode of the Obi One Podcast John Obi Mikel and Chris McHardy sit down with one of the greatest commentators ever, Martin Tyler, to discuss life in the gantry. From being the voice of Sky Sports’ football coverage for over 25 years to delivering some of the greatest lines in Premier League history, including the most famous of them all: ‘…

1
Chelsea-Arsenal verdict: Mikel’s Havertz advice 🤫, Sanchez not good enough 👎🏿 53:40

6M ago53:40

53:40

John Obi Mikel has his say on Chelsea’s 1-1 draw with old rivals Arsenal. From some ‘friendly’ advice for ex-Blue Kai Havertz to question marks over Robert Sanchez’s suitability as the club’s long-term No1. John also opines about Cole Palmer’s quiet afternoon and asks for more in the big games from Chelsea’s main man. Learn more about your ad choic…

1
Eddie Hearn exclusive: Why AJ-Fury ‘will happen’, Turki Alalshikh & becoming a football club owner 52:22

6M ago52:22

52:22

Matchroom CEO Eddie Hearn is one of the most influential figures in boxing, and he’s the latest guest on the Obi One Podcast with John Obi Mikel and Chris McHardy. Eddie opens up on life in the industry, the lessons he learned from his father Barry, Turki Alalshikh’s role in shaping the sport’s future and answers the burning question: will Anthony …

1
John Obi Mikel is BACK: Victor v Viktor, Enzo conundrum & Rodri disrespect 58:20

6M ago58:20

58:20

Fresh from his appearance at the Ballon d’Or ceremony, Chelsea great John Obi Mikel aims both barrels at Real Madrid, settles on Enzo Maresca’s ideal midfield pairing and gives his verdict on Europe’s hottest striker right now. So who gets his vote? Sporting’s goal machine Viktor Gyökeres or fellow Nigerian, Victor Osimhen? Learn more about your ad…

1
Claude Makélélé exclusive: Life at Chelsea, Real Madrid exit & Kanté’s genius 51:33

6M ago51:33

51:33

He’s the man who has a position named after him, and he’s also the latest guest on the Obi One Podcast. Introducing the one and only Claude Makélélé. The former midfield metronome looks back on his career, from being unceremoniously jettisoned by Real Madrid to finding a home at Chelsea. He also opens up on the qualities needed for his position, wh…

1
Michael Emenalo exclusive: Saudi masterplan, Osimhen ‘snub’ & Salah truth 1:44:57

7M ago1:44:57

1:44:57

John Obi Mikel and Chris McHardy are in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia for an exclusive, in-depth interview with Chelsea’s former Technical Director Michael Emenalo. In this wide-ranging conversation, Emenalo gives fascinating insight into his new role as Director of Football for the Saudi Pro League, what the job entails and what the overall vision is for t…

1
John Obi Mikel verdict: Palmer no Lampard… yet + why Tuchel is the man for Man Utd 57:39

7M ago57:39

57:39

Chelsea great John Obi Mikel has a smile on his face after Cole Palmer’s four-goal masterclass against Brighton. But he is calling for calm. And there’s good reason. John also picks through the wreckage of Manchester United’s 3-0 demolition at the hands of Tottenham and believes it’s time for a former Chelsea boss to come out of hibernation and tak…

1
Patrice Evra Exclusive: Shocking Ronaldo/Man Utd Revelation & Near Brawl with Luis Suarez 1:33:49

7M ago1:33:49

1:33:49

Manchester United legend Patrice Evra reflects on his illustrious career in this hilarious sit-down with John Obi Mikel and Chris McHardy. ‘Pat’ opens up on why he wanted to quit United just days after joining, his unique relationship with Sir Alex Ferguson and reveals some of the secrets from the inner sanctum. Evra also reveals just how close he …

1
Creating a Nico Jackson MONSTER & why Chelsea finally have Kante Mark II 38:54

7M ago38:54

38:54

Chelsea legend John Obi Mikel delivers his verdict after his former side’s 3-0 at West Ham. He devours a huge slice of humble pie after Nicolas Jackson’s two-goal showing plus he can’t hide his excitement as Moisés Caicedo finally shows his true colours. As for Arsenal’s gamesmanship against Manchester City, John is under no illusions they learnt f…

1
John Obi Mikel verdict: Sancho promise; Nkunku dilemma & Maresca delight 58:46

7M ago58:46

58:46

In this episode of Taking the Mikel, John Obi Mikel reflects on Chelsea’s hard-fought 1-0 win at Bournemouth. His verdict on Jadon Sancho’s match-winning cameo and why there are shades of Chelsea’s past with Messrs Drogba and Terry. Also, is Christopher Nkunku the answer to the Blues profligacy in front of goal? John also discusses the North London…

1
Gary Cahill exclusive: Mourinho’s mind games, hating ‘Sarriball’ & becoming a Chelsea great 1:03:29

8M ago1:03:29

1:03:29

Former Chelsea captain Gary Cahill joins the Obi One Podcast to reminisce about his trophy-laden seven years at Stamford Bridge. From silencing the doubters to winning over José Mourinho, Cahill opens up on what life was REALLY like playing for the Blues. He also pulls no punches in his critique of one former boss and his ‘boring’ style. Not one to…

1
John Obi Mikel talks Nigeria, Labbadia farce & Gus Poyet call 25:24

8M ago25:24

25:24

In the latest episode of Taking the Mikel, the fellas take advantage of the international break to assess Nigeria’s fortunes on and off the pitch. John Obi Mikel delivers his verdict on the Super Eagles’ unbeaten start to their African Cup of Nations qualifying campaign and the hullabaloo surrounding their vacant managerial position. Learn more abo…

1
Victor Osimhen exclusive: The inside story of his failed move to Chelsea 42:12

8M ago42:12

42:12

Chelsea great John Obi Mikel lifts the lid on what REALLY happened on transfer deadline day as his former club chased the signature of Victor Osimhen. Just how involved was he trying to lure his fellow Nigerian to Stamford Bridge? How close was the deal? And what now that Osimhen is off to Galatasaray? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaph…

1
Keys & Gray exclusive: The REAL truth behind Sky Sports exit & Carragher fury 1:42:20

8M ago1:42:20

1:42:20

In this latest episode of the Obi One Podcast, John and Chris are in Doha to speak to BeIN Sports’ duo Richard Keys and Andy Gray. In this warts ‘n all conversation, Richard and Andy are incredibly candid about their controversial exit from Sky Sports in 2011, the mental toll it took on them and the anger they still feel over the way it was handled…

1
Taking The Mikel: John Obi Mikel’s reposté to Jackson’s ‘shut your mouth’ tirade 35:38

8M ago35:38

35:38

There really was only one place to start in this week’s Taking the Mikel episode. 👀 John Obi reponds to being told to ‘shut his mouth’ by Chelsea striker Nicolas Jackson. Shots well and truly fired. The Blues legend also runs the rule over Chelsea’s 6-2 demolition of Wolves, hails the impact of Noni Madueke and has his say on rumours that Jadon San…

1
John Obi Mikel on what’s REALLY going on with Sterling & Chelsea 37:54

8M ago37:54

37:54

In his latest Taking the Mikel podcast, former Chelsea midfielder John Obi Mikel weighs in on the future of Raheem Sterling after his shock omission from Chelsea’s squad for their Premier League opener. Is there more to the story? And what’s next? John also gives his verdict on the overall performance in Chelsea’s the 2-0 defeat to Manchester City,…

1
Robert Pires EXCLUSIVE: ‘Nobody touches Henry’, finally forgiving Wenger & Arteta’s Arsenal verdict 41:14

9M ago41:14

41:14

Arsenal and France legend Robert Pires is the latest big-name to join the Obi One Podcast as he opens up on life with the Gunners. From his relationship with Ashley Cole and Thierry Henry to the leadership of Patrick Vieira, Pires reminisces about the glory days at both Highbury and the Emirates. Arsenal’s Invincibles versus Man Utd’s Treble winner…

1
Taking The Mikel: John Obi on Chelsea's plight, Osimhen future & Top 4 prediction 1:02:29

9M ago1:02:29

1:02:29

In this Taking the Mikel episode, John Obi Mikel looks ahead to the brand new English Premier League season. He gives his verdict on Chelsea’s pre-season form, makes an impassioned plea to Blues target Victor Osimhen and questions the club’s desire to get rid of two players who “bleed blue”: Trevor Chalobah and Conor Gallagher. Mikel also calls on …

1
The Obi One: S02 Episode 2 - Carlo Ancelotti 1:11:14

9M ago1:11:14

1:11:14

In another exclusive for the Obi One Podcast, John and Chris are in the Spanish capital to speak to none other than Real Madrid boss Carlo Ancelotti. Fresh from a record-extending fifth European Cup triumph as manager, Don Carlo was only too willing to open the doors to Real’s training ground for this wide-ranging and illuminating hour-long sit dow…

1
Taking the Mikel: Episode 7 - EXCLUSIVE: Real Madrid Insight & Obi Mikel's Impassioned Enzo Fernandez Verdict 49:17

9M ago49:17

49:17

In this latest episode of Taking the Mikel, John Obi and Chris find themselves in Madrid, Spain as they sit down with a familiar face. All will be revealed! Also in this edition, John Obi gives his verdict on the controversy surrounding current Chelsea star Enzo Fernandez, makes an impassioned defence of African football AND endorses a former Blues…

1
The Obi One: S02 Episode 1 - Usain Bolt 1:13:47

10M ago1:13:47

1:13:47

Olympic legend Usain Bolt joins the Obi One Podcast for an exclusive, in-depth look back on his illustrious career. How did he deal with pressure, who was his greatest rival and was his showmanship merely an act? The Jamaican icon reveals all in conversation with John Obi Mikel and Chris McHardy. He also discusses a human’s limitations, makes a sta…

1
Taking the Mikel: Episode 6 - Maresca, transfer targets & Fergie forgiveness 40:07

11M ago40:07

40:07

In the latest Taking the Mikel episode, John and Chris discuss new Chelsea boss Enzo Maresca and his transfer priorities this summer. John also details the genius of Carlo Ancelotti, delivers a warning to José Mourinho and reveals why he might just be back on Sir Alex Ferguson’s Christmas card list. Download and subscribe to the Obi One Podcast now…

1
The Obi One: Episode 12 - Petr Čech 1:53:12

1y ago1:53:12

1:53:12

Chelsea’s greatest ever goalkeeper, Petr Cech, joins John and Chris on Episode 12 of the Obi One Podcast. The Czech man mountain details what made José Mourinho’s Chelsea so special, opens up on the full extent of the sickening head injury that changed his outlook on life and why Champions League glory as a boardroom executive is his favourite memo…

1
Taking the Mikel: Episode 5 - Are Chelsea ‘billion pound bottlejobs’? 26:23

1y ago26:23

26:23

In the aftermath of Chelsea’s extra time defeat to Liverpool in the EFL Cup Final, John gives his verdict. Was Gary Neville right to call the Blues bottlejobs? And what now for Mauricio Pochettino? The big man has his say. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoicesBy John Obi Mikel and Chris McHardy

1
The Obi One: Episode 11 - Eden Hazard 1:32:58

1y ago1:32:58

1:32:58

In his first in-depth interview since his shock retirement last year, Eden Hazard opens up about his career like never before with John and Chris. From snubbing Sir Alex Ferguson to what life was REALLY like at Chelsea. The Belgian magician also explains why Zinedine Zidane - and not Lionel Messi or Cristiano Ronaldo - is the greatest footballer of…

1
Taking the Mikel: Episode 4 - Premier League’s all-time Africa XI 1:01:45

1y ago1:01:45

1:01:45

In this episode of Taking the Mikel, John and Chris react to Nigeria’s run to the AFCON semi-finals and pick their best African XI of players who’ve plied their trade in the Premier League. John also makes a hilarious admission about ex-Chelsea star Celestine Babayaro. 👀 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices…

1
The Obi One: Episode 10 - Rio Ferdinand 1:13:18

1+ y ago1:13:18

1:13:18

In a break from the norm, Episode 10 features our first non-Chelsea or Nigeria star: it’s Rio Ferdinand. Hear from the Manchester United legend as he discusses his battles with Chelsea, his run-ins with Sir Alex, the brilliance of Paul Scholes and Erik ten Hag’s immediate future. 👀 Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoices…

1
The Obi One: Episode 9 - Joe Cole 1:16:10

1+ y ago1:16:10

1:16:10

Episode 9 features a player former Chelsea team-mates affectionately nicknamed “Zizou”. It’s the one and only, Joe Cole. A boyhood Blues fan, Cole is in superb form in as he opens on a variety of topics in studio with John Obi Mikel. From turning down Sir Alex Ferguson to Claudio Ranieri’s hilarious sales pitch to take him to the Bridge. There’s th…

1
Taking the Mikel: Episode 3 - Sunday Oliseh, look away now! 17:20

1+ y ago17:20

17:20

Taking the Mikel: Sunday Oliseh, look away now! - Ep.3 Ahead of the upcoming 2024 African Cup of Nations, John Obi Mikel reminisces about leading Nigeria to continental success back in 2013. He then takes aim at a compatriot who he labels the worst manager he’s ever come across! 👀 Hold onto your hats, folks. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit …

1
The Obi One: Episode 8 - Victor Boniface 1:23:55

1+ y ago1:23:55

1:23:55

From the Special One to a special one. Victor Boniface is one of the most exciting young strikers in world football, and he’s our special guest on Episode 8. With 10 goals and 7 assists in 16 Bundesliga games this season, the Nigerian is spearheading Bayer Leverkusen’s bid to end Bayern Munich’s dominance. Here, he talks candidly about the heartbre…

1
The Obi One: Episode 7 - José Mourinho 1:03:47

1+ y ago1:03:47

1:03:47

He is the Special One, and over the course of an hour-long chat on the Obi One Podcast, José Mourinho reminds us why. Hear from the Portuguese as he reminisces about his days at Chelsea, what ACTUALLY happened with Kevin de Bruyne and Mohamed Salah and the player that gave him more grey hairs than any other. José also opens up on why beating Liverp…

1
Taking the Mikel: Episode 2 - ‘Chelsea lack f**** leaders’ 36:27

1+ y ago36:27

36:27

John Obi Mikel turns the air blue as he gives a DAMNING assessment of this current Chelsea side after their defeat at Everton. Where are the leaders and Is Mauricio Pochettino still the right man for the job? Learn more about your ad choices. Visit megaphone.fm/adchoicesBy John Obi Mikel and Chris McHardy

1
The Obi One: Episode 6 - Gianfranco Zola 1:33:48

1+ y ago1:33:48

1:33:48

Voted Chelsea’s greatest ever player in a 2003 fan poll, Gianfranco Zola is our latest guest on the pod, and what an episode it is! Hear Franco as you’ve never heard him before as he makes an extraordinary Roman Abramovich claim, regales a hilarious Eden Hazard story and tells us why Sir Alex Ferguson was wrong to say he’s “always smiling”. Learn m…

1
The Obi One: Episode 5 - Roberto Di Matteo 1:35:48

1+ y ago1:35:48

1:35:48

Episode 5 sees the man who guided Chelsea to their first ever European Cup success join the guys on the pod. It’s Roberto Di Matteo. Another insightful chat as as ‘Bobby’ opens up about THAT win over Bayern, his duels with Pep Guardiola and the OCD habits of his close friend: the late, great Gianluca Vialli. Learn more about your ad choices. Visit …

Podcasts Worth a Listen

John Obi Mikel And Chris McHardy Podcasts

Podcasts Worth a Listen