National Teams
“We’ve beaten this allegation” – Iwobi, Aina responds to Mikel dual nationality stance
By Monsurah Olatunji
Nigerian duo Alex Iwobi and Ola Aina have supported Mikel Obi’s view that dual-nationality players who choose to play for the Super Eagles are often seen as second-choice players.
Both raised abroad, Iwobi and Aina were eligible to represent England but decided early in their careers to wear the Green and White shirt for Nigeria. However, they both represented England at youth levels.
Former Chelsea midfielder Mikel Obi recently criticized players who choose to represent Nigeria after failing to make the team of their choice and after their peak years.
Iwobi and Aina believe they do not fall into this category as they joined the Super Eagles during their peak.
“Nigeria isn’t a second choice; we shouldn’t be seen as second choice,” Aina said on his YouTube channel.
“Two separate nations require a decision, and I agree with him. Alex and I have disproved these allegations.
“To be honest, playing for England is massive, and when I was younger, I considered it. But as I grew older, I wanted to play for Nigeria, and people like Alex, Victor Moses, and Mikel helped with my transition and made it easier for me.
“I didn’t get rejected by England; I simply wanted to play for Nigeria. I was fortunate it worked out. There’s no better feeling than playing for Nigeria.”
“It’s the same for me,” Iwobi added. “I had received an invitation to the England U21 team, but I wanted to try out for Nigeria. I was invited to the U23s, and when I got to camp, I immediately felt at home and haven’t looked back since.”
