National Teams
Alex Iwobi: Playing for Nigeria feels like home
By Monsurah Olatunji
Fulham midfielder Alex Iwobi has emphatically stated that he has “no regrets” about choosing to represent Nigeria over England.
The 28-year-old versatile midfielder, whose maternal uncle is African football icon Austin Jay-Jay Okocha, has been a mainstay in the Nigerian national team since making his debut in October 2015.
Born in Lagos, Nigeria, Iwobi moved to England at the age of four, making him eligible to represent either England or Nigeria. He spent most of his childhood in the Arsenal youth setup, eventually making it to the senior team.
Initially, Iwobi played for England’s youth international teams, including the U-16, U-17, and U-18 sides, before switching his allegiance to the three-time AFCON winners in 2015.
Almost a decade after deciding to play for Nigeria, the former Arsenal man revealed in an interview with Kiss Fresh, London, that he has no regrets about picking the Super Eagles.
“I felt more at home there (in Nigeria),” the Fulham star shared. “Football out there is like a festival, it’s like a party. You go into the game, you see people blowing trumpets and drums; it doesn’t even feel like a proper match. I was like, ‘Yeah, this is where I belong.’”
He added, “Of course, I have respect for England, but I have no regret in choosing Nigeria.”
Iwobi’s decision to represent Nigeria has seen him become a crucial part of the national team, contributing significantly to their successes over the years.