“He’s just a small game player” — Mikel Obi calls out Haaland

Former Super Eagles and Chelsea star, John Mikel Obi has thrown Manchester City striker Erling Haaland under the bus after the Norwegian’s stinker versus Inter Milan in the Champions League.

The Cityzens who are known for their free scoring potential, played a shocking 0-0 draw in their first Champions League game of the season versus Italian side Inter Milan with neither of Manchester City’s threats failing to put the ball into the back of the net.

However, during his analysis on beIN Sports, Mikel Obi focused on Erling Haaland, expressing his doubts about the Norwegian’s ability to shine when the pressure is at its peak in high-stakes matches.

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Despite Haaland’s remarkable record-breaking feats—netting a staggering number of goals in the Premier League last season—Mikel is not entirely convinced. He pointed out that while Haaland may dominate against mid-level teams, his performances in critical moments, like the upcoming Arsenal clash, are where true football legends stand out.

“Right now, he hasn’t. We can agree on that,” Mikel stated bluntly when asked if Haaland had taken big games by the scruff of the neck. “He’s scored goals, so many goals, but in the big games, I want to see him do that on Sunday again when they play Arsenal. I want to see him show up in big games and be the man. Score one or two, hat-trick, whatever it is.”

These comments place Haaland under the microscope, challenging the narrative around him as the perfect striker for Manchester City.

Obi’s statement however, takes out the fact that Erling Haaland turned up in City’s first premier league game of the season to hand Manchester City the lead against Chelsea.