Chelsea legend Mikel terminates Trabzonspor contract due to coronavirus concerns

A few hours ago, top-of-the-table Trabzonspor announced on their website that Mikel John Obi has terminated his contract with the club. The Chelsea legend had over a year left to run on his contract still, but gave up all his remaining wages in order to end his time at the club less than a year after joining.

While the official statement does not give a reason as to why this happened, Mikel’s Instagram post from a couple days ago is probably all the information we need to know. In it, Mikel argues against keeping football going, saying that he does not feel comfortable playing and that the season should be canceled so that everyone can be home with their families.

“There is more to life than football. I do not feel comfortable and don’t want to play football in this situation. Everyone should be home with their families and loved ones in this critical time. Season should be cancelled as the world is facing such turbulent times.”

-Mikel; source: Instagram

But Turkey, alongside Russia, have kept their seasons running while the rest of Europe have shut down. So Mikel, ever the man of principle and family, looks to have taken matters into his own hands. Well done, big man!

Here’s to doing the right thing and leading by example!

Trabzonspor’s collection of former Chelsea players has gone from three to just one in the last couple weeks, after Daniel Sturridge’s contract was terminated due to a world-wide four-month suspension on gambling charges. Former coach and player Eddie Newton, now Trabzonspor assistant, is the only one left!