Alex Iwobi Recalls Choosing Super Eagles Over England After Wenger Advice and Olympic Call-up

Posted : 18 April 2026

Nigeria international Alex Iwobi has provided fresh insight into his decision to commit to the Super Eagles over the England national team. Speaking on the Beast Mode On podcast, the Fulham star revealed that former Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger played a pivotal role in the process. Wenger advised the young midfielder to think carefully about his future, noting that a senior England call-up remained a possibility if he remained patient.

Iwobi was a regular fixture in England’s youth setups, representing the Three Lions at U16, U17, and U18 levels. However, his progression within the English system hit a plateau as he struggled for consistent first-team minutes at Arsenal. While his peers in the England U21 squad were gaining experience in the lower leagues, Iwobi remained in the academy fringes. This lack of senior exposure made the prospect of playing for Nigeria’s Olympic team an attractive alternative.

The midfielder's first taste of Nigerian football provided a sharp contrast to the polished environments of English academies. Iwobi recalled basic facilities where players were responsible for washing their own kits and faced rigorous discipline from local coaches. Despite these challenges, he felt an immediate emotional connection to the environment. He described the welcoming atmosphere at the airport and the local cuisine as factors that made him feel "at home" even before he became a household name.

A decisive moment arrived when Nigeria’s senior team invited him for a crucial fixture against Egypt. Wenger offered Iwobi the choice to either delay the decision to keep his England options open or embrace the Nigerian invitation. Driven by the passion he witnessed from the fans and the sense of belonging he felt during earlier training camps, Iwobi chose the Super Eagles. Wenger supported the decision, wishing him success as he embarked on his journey with the three-time African champions.

Since making his senior debut in October 2015 against DR Congo, Iwobi has become one of Nigeria's most consistent performers. He has earned 98 caps and scored 10 goals, including the famous strike against Zambia that secured 2018 World Cup qualification. The 29-year-old noted that while England has a disciplined and elite system, the unpredictability and energy of Nigerian football offer a unique joy. He remains the most capped active player in the current Super Eagles squad.

Alex Iwobi Recalls Choosing Super Eagles Over England After Wenger Advice and Olympic Call-up

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