Super Eagles legend John Mikel Obi has paid glowing tribute to Yaya Toure, calling him “the most complete African footballer that ever played in the Premier League.”
Speaking on the ObiOne Podcast, Mikel praised the Ivorian midfield powerhouse for his sheer dominance during his time at Manchester City, where he became a club legend after joining from Barcelona in 2010.
"Yaya Toure is the most complete African footballer that ever played in the Premier League."
— @𝗼𝗻𝗲𝗷𝗼𝗯𝗹𝗲𝘀𝘀𝗯𝗼𝘆 (@OneJoblessBoy) April 24, 2025
– Mikel Obi pic.twitter.com/PJgMyXLKqp
Toure, who moved to the Etihad after falling out of favour under Pep Guardiola at Barca, went on to redefine midfield roles in England’s top flight blending power, precision, and an eye for goal like no other.
“Yaya was a beast. He could defend, attack, score goals, and control the game. No African player did it like him in the Premier League,” Mikel said.
Yaya’s trophy cabinet says it all:
- 🏆 3 Premier League titles
- 🏆 3 League Cups
- 🏆 1 FA Cup
- 🏆 1 Community Shield
With 82 goals and 12 assists in 316 appearances for City, the Ivorian etched his name in Premier League folklore and according to Mikel, deserves every bit of his flowers.
Do you agree with Mikel’s take?
