Ex-Super Eagles captain, John Obi Mikel admits feeling a sense of trepidation upon encountering Sir Alex Ferguson following his reversal on a Manchester United transfer and subsequent decision to join Chelsea.

Former captain of the Nigerian national team, John Obi Mikel, has divulged that he experienced an overwhelming sense of apprehension and discomfort upon his initial encounter with the esteemed figure of Sir Alex Ferguson, subsequent to his decision to join Chelsea despite previously agreeing to a move to Manchester United.

In 2005, at the tender age of 18, Mikel secured a transfer to Manchester United. The club successfully convinced him to sign a four-year contract, bypassing his agents, with the anticipation of his arrival at Old Trafford in January 2006.

However, Chelsea caused a stir by asserting that they had already reached an agreement with Mikel and his representatives. The situation took an unexpected turn as Mikel, who had been pictured donning a Manchester United shirt during a press conference in Norway, later claimed that he had been coerced into signing the contract without the presence of his agent and expressed his desire to sign for Chelsea instead.

In response, Manchester United lodged a complaint with FIFA against Chelsea and Mikel's agents. Eventually, in June 2006, a resolution was reached among Chelsea, Manchester United, and Lyn (Mikel's former club) regarding the player's future.

Ultimately, Mikel sealed a £16 million deal to join Chelsea. However, he fondly recounted a humorous incident that unfolded when he first encountered Sir Alex Ferguson following the transfer. As per Mikel's recollection, he endeavored to conceal himself from the gaze of the Manchester United manager, only to stumble and fall on the stairs, leading to Ferguson casting upon him an intense and disapproving glare.

Notwithstanding, Mikel disclosed that Ferguson ultimately extended forgiveness towards him regarding the transfer.

He said: 'It was a death stare. I met him a few times after that and we started talking about it and he forgot about it and forgave me.'

Mikel proceeded to relish an extensive tenure at Chelsea until 2017, amassing an impressive tally of 372 appearances and six goals for the club. During his tenure, he achieved remarkable triumphs, including securing the Champions League title, clinching two Premier League championships, triumphing in four FA Cups, claiming two League Cups, and emerging victorious in the Europa League.

In the realm of international competition, Mikel dutifully represented Nigeria on 91 instances and attained the pinnacle of success by capturing the Africa Cup of Nations in 2013.