Nicholas Mickelson reveals for the first time what down-to-earth moments he experiences when returning home to Phitsanulok.
On 26 Feb 2026 GMT+7, Nicholas Mickelson, the Thai-Norwegian right-back beloved by Thai fans and currently playing for SC Paderborn 07 in Germany's 2. Bundesliga, gave an exclusive interview to Thai sports media during the “Bundesliga-Media Roundtable with Nicholas Mickelson.” He revealed his very simple lifestyle during the off-season when traveling back to his hometown in Ban Mai Subdistrict, Phitsanulok Province, and what he does there.
After fulfilling his national duty during FIFA Day matches held in Thailand, Nicholas often finds time to return to his hometown. The sincere young man from Phitsanulok Each time he returns home, it’s not just for rest; he also participates in social activities, such as joining the opening of a new artificial turf football field in Ban Mai Municipality, inspiring local youth.
"The last two or three times felt like truly coming home. The most recent visit included going to the new artificial turf football field in the municipality," the 26-year-old footballer said with a smile.
When asked about the main activity he never misses, Mickelson responded cheerfully, "Eating." He usually tours local, casual eateries where the flavors are familiar and unavailable anywhere in Europe.
"Mostly, what I do is eat. I have a regular spot at a simple, home-style restaurant with amazing flavors. I always stop there because the food is truly delicious. I also have another favorite place where I like to eat Pad Thai," he said.
Despite his nationwide fame, "Lookso" remains the same boy from Ban Mai village. He spends time sipping coffee and chatting with the older friends who took him to play football as a child.
"There, I meet the aunties and the older guys who used to take me to play football at the field when I was a kid. Now they’ve all grown up. I sit and drink coffee with them, talking about everyday life." "Yes."
Nicholas Mickelson = The pride of Ban Mai, Phitsanulok His popularity is overwhelming wherever he goes, especially when visiting shopping malls, which he describes as if time momentarily stops.
"I remember when I went for a walk, just walking normally, people stopped their cars to greet me. Once, when I went to a mall, it felt like the entire mall stopped walking to take photos with me. Employees from every shop came out to find me," he recalled.
Every time Nicholas returns home, it’s not only a break from competition but also a chance to develop and inspire local children through football. He is a source of pride for the uncles, aunts, and neighbors in Ban Mai Subdistrict. No matter how far he advances in his professional football career, "hometown" and "childhood friendships" remain special places for Lookso.