The Ivorian legend and the retired Super Eagles captain were former teammates at Chelsea during the club’s most successful period
Former Cote d’Ivoire and Chelsea striker Didier Drogba is looking forward to playing host to ex-Super Eagles midfielder John Obi Mikel at the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations, Soccernet.ng reports.
Some of the biggest names in African and world football will be in Cote d’Ivoire over the next four weeks as the West African nation hosts the biggest football festival on the continent.
It is a competition that gives Drogba the best of memories, with Cote d’Ivoire’s all-time leading goalscorer winning two silver medals.
The former Marseille striker is even delighted to have his country play host to the rest of Africa to watch some of the best talents the continent has to offer.
Drogba revealed that African greats like Roger Milla and Youssouf Fofana inspired him during his career and in his hunt for the championship crown.
Now that he can only enjoy the tournament as a fan, Drogba confesses he is ready to party with former Chelsea teammate Mikel Obi when he arrives for the AFCON.
“We are very happy to welcome all of Africa. It is going to be a party,” Drogba told Cafonline.
“It is the most beautiful competition for all Africans. I was inspired by Roger Milla, Gadji Celi, Youssouf Fofana, and many others. Our legends were revealed in this tournament. Laurent Pokou for example and others.
“For us, it’s the celebration of African football. The unity of a continent to see Sadio Mané, Obi Mikel, it’s Africa’s party for a month.”
Mikel and Drogba will put their friendship aside when Nigeria and Cote d’Ivoire take to the pitch on matchday two of the AFCON.
The Super Eagles and the Elephants have been drawn in Group A alongside Equatorial Guinea and Guinea-Bissau.
Let’s watch futbol made in Africa for a month. Wishing all the country’s team good luck.
Didier let’s meet at the fan side and watch these young lads to know if they have improved.