Mikel Obi revealed he was once offered performance-enhancing drugs during his time at Chelsea. Speaking on the Obi One Podcast, the former Nigeria captain discussed the importance of athletes being responsible for what they consume and expressed hope that suspended Chelsea player Mykhailo Mudryk is innocent.
Former Nigerian footballer and ex-Chelsea midfielder, Mikel Obi, revealed that he was once offered performance-enhancing drugs during his time at Chelsea. The disclosure came in light of recent doping allegations involving Chelsea player Mykhailo Mudryk, who was provisionally suspended after failing a drug test.
Speaking on the Obi One Podcast, Mikel expressed hope that Mudryk would be found innocent, emphasizing the importance of personal responsibility in professional sports. "I hope for him and his family’s sake that he is innocent," Mikel stated. He further elaborated, “During my playing career, people around—friends, acquaintances—would sometimes offer things claiming they could boost performance. I always asked, ‘What is this? Is it legal?’ and refused anything suspicious.”
Mikel highlighted the need for athletes to remain vigilant about what they consume and to prioritize their integrity. He also stressed the importance of accountability, saying, "We are responsible for what we put in our bodies, from food to supplements."
The former Chelsea star refrained from directly accusing the club, clarifying that such offers often come from external sources. His remarks provided a cautionary perspective for young athletes navigating similar challenges in competitive sports.
Mudryk, meanwhile, has denied any wrongdoing and awaits further investigation. The situation has reignited conversations about doping in football and the measures needed to protect players and the integrity of the sport. Mikel’s reflections underline the pressures players face and the critical need for ethical decision-making on and off the field.