AFCON 2025: I'm not vocal — Alex Iwobi explains how he leads Super Eagles

AFCON 2025: I'm not vocal — Alex Iwobi explains how he leads Super Eagles

Faruq Ibrahim 22:44 - 22.12.2025

Alex Iwobi is one of the senior members of the Super Eagles squad, but his leadership style is not conventional.

Super Eagles midfielder Alex Iwobi admitted that he is not the type to bark commands or offer rousing speeches; instead, he looks to lead by example.

The 29-year-old is a veteran in his own right. Having made his debut in 2015, he has spent a decade as a Super Eagles international, recording 91 caps, the most of any active player in the squad.

What Iwobi said 

Eric Chelle named five fresh faces for the AFCON 28-man squad, which has led to concerns about inexperience and team chemistry. 

Ahead of the clash against Tanzania, Iwobi was asked whether he leveraged his status as a leader in the dressing room to help the green shoots settle into the team. 

Alex Iwobi || Imago
Alex Iwobi || Imago

He said, “I'm not really one that is vocal, but I like to lead by example on the pitch.”

“There's a reason why everyone is here. Everyone has the ability and attributes that they can contribute to the team. All I want them to do is enjoy the moment and enjoy the change and opportunity to win the AFCON.”

Meanwhile, Iwobi was in contention to become the Super Eagles captain after the retirements of William Troost-Ekong and Ahmed Musa. The man who got the gig, Wilfred Ndidi, was also asked about the readiness of the newer players in the team, and he stated confidently that they were well acclimatised