Who is the Best Premier League Player Ever? Mikel Obi Names His Choice
Former Super Eagles captain Mikel Obi has picked ex-France international Thierry Henry as the greatest player in Premier League history.
The Premier League has seen many football legends over the years. Some believe Alan Shearer deserves the title, as he remains the league’s all-time top scorer with 260 goals. Others argue that Cristiano Ronaldo is the best, given his incredible success, although he had a greater impact in Spain with Real Madrid.
For Chelsea fans, club legends like Didier Drogba, Frank Lampard, and John Terry are often mentioned due to their major influence between 2004 and 2015. Meanwhile, Liverpool’s Mohamed Salah has entered the conversation, with 178 goals and 82 assists to his name in the league.
However, Mikel does not believe Salah has done enough to be named the greatest. Having played alongside Drogba, Lampard, and Terry, as well as facing Ronaldo and Wayne Rooney, the former Chelsea midfielder is convinced that Henry stands above the rest.
“Statistically, Salah can be in the conversation, but when it comes to a complete player, you can’t include him,” Mikel said on the Obi One Podcast.
“I’m a big fan of Salah, he’s my friend, and I knew him from my Chelsea days. He’s different now—more confident, mentally and physically stronger.
“But the best player ever in the Premier League is Thierry Henry. For two to three years, he completely dominated the league. He had everything—skill, pace, strength, finishing ability—he was simply outstanding.”
Mikel spent over ten years at Chelsea, winning the Premier League, FA Cup, and UEFA Champions League, leaving his own mark on English football. However, when it comes to the league’s best-ever player, his choice is clear—Thierry Henry.