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Wenger Encourages Iwobi’s Defensive Growth Despite Striking Success
Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger has lauded the strides made by Super Eagles forward Alex Iwobi in front of goal but emphasized the need for defensive improvement in the 21-year-old’s game. Despite Iwobi’s impressive goal-scoring performances, Wenger believes there is still room for growth in his overall skill set.
In an interview with Football.London, Wenger acknowledged Iwobi’s evolution, stating, “I think Alex is a player who grows regularly. This season, for the first time, he’s adding what we want from him – goals – to his qualities, which are exceptional.”
Iwobi’s notable contributions include the crucial goal that secured Nigeria’s spot in the 2018 World Cup and a brace in the recent 4-2 comeback win against Argentina. In the Premier League, he added another goal in a 2-0 victory over Brighton, bringing his tally to four for the season.
Wenger highlighted Iwobi’s refined finishing skills, noting, “Before he rushed his finishing, but his finishes against Argentina showed composed finishing of a guy who knows what he’s doing, and with his left foot as well.”
Despite these strides, Wenger emphasized the importance of defensive growth for Iwobi. “There’s still much to come from him. I want him to become a better defender as well. You want him to make better quality receptions in the final third, better runs.”
Wenger praised Iwobi’s passion and analysis of his own game, expressing confidence that with the same enthusiasm and desire to improve, the young forward will continue to progress rapidly. As Iwobi balances his offensive prowess with defensive refinement, Arsenal fans eagerly await his continued development on the field.
