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Alex Iwobi has revealed how a key conversation with former Arsenal manager Arsène Wenger helped shape one of the most important decisions of his career: choosing to represent Nigeria at senior level, Footynaija reports.
The Fulham midfielder explained that Wenger gave him the space to decide his international future at a time when he was weighing up his options between England and Nigeria.
Speaking on the Beast Mode On podcast, the midfielder said the Frenchman did not pressure him, but instead encouraged him to think carefully about what he truly wanted.
“It got to a time when I had to play for Nigeria’s first team, so they called me up against Egypt. Wenger said, ‘What do you want to do? You can delay it so you can think about England, or you can go and represent Nigeria.’ Because of the experience I had, I wanted to go and represent Nigeria. He said they were going to stand by me and wished me all the best.”
— Fulham Football Club (@FulhamFC) April 17, 2026
Iwobi’s decision was influenced heavily by his early exposure to the Nigerian setup, where he felt an immediate connection despite the challenges. He had initially travelled with the Olympic squad while awaiting clearance, and the atmosphere left a lasting impression.
“I was still trying to sort out FIFA clearance. I couldn’t play the knockout games to qualify for the Olympics, but I went to watch and be part of the squad. The away fans turned up with instruments, making noise. I felt like I was at home, this is where I belong.”
he contrast between England’s structure and Nigeria’s unpredictability also played a role in his thinking.
🗣️ Alex Iwobi:
— Arsenal X-tra (@Ar_senalXtra_) April 17, 2026
“At Fulham, it’s different. At Arsenal, you’re an easy scapegoat. I went to my boy’s birthday before a game, we lost, and the papers called me a ‘drug-fuelled balloon’—they blew it out of proportion.” ❌🗞️ pic.twitter.com/Wp6xdRYYVp
“I love playing for England because it’s a strict regime, disciplined, with the best players around. But Nigeria is always fun. You never know what to expect—good or bad.”
Having represented England at youth level, Iwobi found his progress slowing due to limited first-team opportunities at Arsenal FC. At the same time, Nigeria’s approach offered him a clearer pathway to senior international football.
Iwobi has been a key component of the Super Eagles for the best part of a decade. The former Everton lad featured at the 2018 FIFA World Cup and appeared at four editions of the Africa Cup of Nations, winning a silver and two bronze medals.
