Iwobi Shares Setback That Almost Derailed His Arsenal Career; Names Best Super Eagles Pal

Published: December 15, 2019

Speaking to the Super Eagles Media Team via YouTube, Alex Iwobi recollected that he was almost released by Arsenal before signing a scholarship with the North London club.

The Hale End Academy product was able to overcome that setback, going on to make 149 appearances for the Gunners first team in all competitions before sealing a summer move to Everton.

Prior to his departure from the Emirates Stadium, the winger had appeared for the Gunners in the Champions League and Europa League, and helped them win the FA Cup in 2017.

''Of course you always have setbacks especially if you are a footballer,'' Iwobi remarked.

''I'll just give one example, when I was 14 I was told at Arsenal I wasn't good enough so instead of putting my head down and getting upset, I decided to go and prove to them that I had the ability to play in Arsenal, and luckily I was able to get through that setback when I was 14.''

Asked to name his best pal in the Super Eagles, Iwobi did not think twice before choosing Chelsea Academy product Ola Aina.

''In camp, it would probably be Ola Aina, growing up with him, we went to the same school, lived in the same road. Even till now we are still good friends.''

Iwobi has been named in the starting line-up by Everton caretaker coach Duncan Ferguson for Sunday afternoon's Premier League clash at Manchester United.

Igho Kingsley