Mikel agrees to have contract terminated by mutual consent as Super Lig plays games behind closed doors
Wednesday 18 March 2020 09:47, UK
Former Chelsea midfielder Jon Obi Mikel has left Turkish club Trabzonspor because games in the country are still going ahead.
Mikel, who made 368 appearances for Chelsea between 2006 and 2017, said he did not feel comfortable with top-flight games in Turkey being played during the coronavirus pandemic.
The Super Lig is one of the few sporting competitions still active and is currently completing fixtures behind closed doors.
It was confirmed in a statement that the Nigerian, who joined the club last year and had a deal until May 2021, has had his contract terminated by mutual consent.
"There is more to life than football," the 32-year-old had said on Instagram on Saturday.
"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."
As part of his deal to depart the club, Mikel has forfeited any future payments from Trabzonspor.
Five of the most prominent leagues in Europe - England, Spain, Germany, Italy and France - as well as the Champions League and Europa League, have all been suspended, but Turkish league games are going ahead without fans present.
