Alex Iwobi has explained that he chose to commit his international future to Nigeria over England because it was his birthplace, adding that he has no regrets about the decision, SportPremi reports.
The Fulham midfielder was born in Lagos State, Nigeria, but grew up in London where he joined the Hale End academy at a very young age.
The playmaker featured for the England at the U-16, U-17 and U-18 level, but opted to represent the Super Eagles at senior level.
He made his national team debut in October 2015, coming on as a second half replacement for Ahmed Musa in a 2-0 win over the Democratic Republic of Congo.
The 29-year-old also represented Nigeria at the 2018 FIFA World Cup in Russia and was a key part of the squad that sealed bronze medal at the 2019 African Cup of Nations.
Iwobi also played at the 2022 African Cup of Nations, although the Super Eagles were eliminated by Tunisia in the round of 16.
The former Arsenal midfielder then helped the national team to silver place at the last edition of the tournament in Ivory Coast in 2024.
He has been included in Eric Chelle’s final squad to represent the three-time champions in Morocco later this month and he will be keen on finally securing the elusive gold medal this time around.
What Iwobi said
Alex Iwobi has made 91 appearances for the Super Eagles and has been tipped to overtake record holder Ahmed Musa, who has 106 caps.
Speaking during an interview session, the Fulham midfielder explained the reason behind his decision and what it meant representing the Nigerian national team.
“Quick disclaimer: I was born in Nigeria. I was eight months old when I moved over here. Obviously, I grew up in London”, Iwobi stated.
“I’ve grown up in the English culture, but at home it was always the Nigerian culture — the Nigerian food. I played in the England system from 16 to 19, but I thought it was only right that, before I ever made a decision, I tried out both.
“When I went to try Nigeria, I felt more at home, like the Nigerian spirit has always been within me”, the 29-year-old added
“Of course, I respect England, but it’s nice that I have gone back to the Nigerian team, and there are a lot of players doing so now, not just in Nigeria, but other countries as well. Everyone is remembering their roots. They are celebrating and going back to represent, so it’s nice.”
The Super Eagles team are expected to arrive in their camp for the AFCON tournament in Morocco from today, with a pre-tournament friendly scheduled against Egypt next Tuesday.
They will then begin their campaign in Morocco against Tanzania on the 23rd, before facing Tunisia and Uganda in their remaining group C games.
