Chelsea’s John Obi Mikel Officially Changes His Name (See His New Name)

helsea midfielder John Obi Mikel is clearing up the confusion that’s apparently existed about his name. Mikel’s real name, it turns out, has actually always been John Michael Nchekwube Obinna. Until now, that is, because he’s officially changing it to Mikel John Obi.

The 29-year-old, who has played almost 400 matches for the Blues, was never actually called ‘John Obi Mikel’.

That was a nickname that stuck.

It came about after the Nigerian Football Association mistakenly wrote Mikel instead of Michael on a form for the 2003 Under-17 World Championships.

The midfielder liked the name so much that he has used it since and never thought to correct anybody.

Since arriving at Chelsea in 2006 he has used ‘Mikel’ on the back of his shirt. Now, he’s made it official – welcome Mikel John Obi.