From Mohamed Salah to Sadio Mane: John Obi Mikel’s Premier League’s All-Time African XI as AFCON 2024 Nears End

The Premier League has been a stage for African soccer brilliance for decades. From the dazzling skills of Jay-Jay Okocha to the predatory presence of Didier Drogba, these stars have captivated audiences with their blockbuster performances on the pitch. And who better to assess their impact than a Premier League legend himself, John Obi-Mikel? On his podcast, The Obi One, the former Chelsea icon unveiled his all-time African XI composed entirely of players who have played in the Premier League. The list boasts an array of stars, one inclusion stands tall – Mohamed Salah.

John Obi-Mikel’s curated lineup showcases African soccer excellence. The Chelsea legend picked Edouard Mendy as his shot-stopper. Former Chelsea star, Celestine Babayaro, and Arsenal legend Lauren cover the full-back position. For the defensive pairing, Mikel chose Arsenal’s Kolo Toure and Leeds United’s Lucas Radebe. Whereas, Yaya Toure and Michael Essien pair up in the midfield, alongside African legend Jay-Jay Okocha in the playmaker role. The front three boasts the likes of Mohamed Salah and Sadio Mane on the wings, with Didier Drogba spearheading the attack.

John Obi-Mikel’s XI (4-2-1-3): Édouard Mendy (GK); Celestine Babayaro (LB), Kolo Toure (CB), Lucas Radebe (CB), Lauren (RB); Michael Essien (CM), Yaya Toure (CM), Jay-Jay Okocha (CAM); Mohamed Salah (RW), Didier Drogba (CF), Sadio Mane (LW)

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The Indispensable King: Why Mohamed Salah reigns supreme in the Premier League

Picking Mohamed Salah on the right flank was a no-brainer for John Obi-Mikel. The Egyptian’s dazzling footwork and knack for creating chances have terrorized Premier League defenders for years. His numbers speak for itself: 153 goals and 72 assists in 251 appearances, making him the highest-scoring African in Premier League history. Salah also boasts three Premier League golden boots, making him level with some of the all-time Premier League greats.

But, Salah’s impact on the pitch goes beyond just statistics. He has become a pivotal figure for Liverpool, leading them to much-awaited Premier League and Champions League triumphs. Mohamed Salah has also been a major influence on the young generation, as he has become a global icon inspiring African youth.

While the possibility of Mohamed Salah gracing the Saudi Arabian pitches with his talent remains speculative, his status in the Premier League’s African royalty is one of the best. As Liverpool’s star aims to return from his injury in Liverpool’s next clash against Burnley on February 10, fans will be hoping to see more of his inside-curlers in the Premier League.

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