The former Arsenal player admitted that teammates used to check Kanu's boots to make sure they were normal
Even years after hanging up his boots, Nwankwo Kanu’s brilliance still leaves former teammates and opponents in awe.
The Nigerian icon, known for his effortless flair and spellbinding technique, continues to inspire admiration and disbelief from those who witnessed his genius up close.
Pennant recalls Kanu’s magic at Arsenal
Former Arsenal winger Jermaine Pennant recently gave a glowing tribute to Kanu during an appearance on the Beasttmode podcast hosted by Adebayo Akinfenwa.
Reflecting on their time together at Arsenal, Pennant couldn’t help but laugh while remembering just how surreal Kanu’s footwork was.
“We used to check his boots sometimes and think, ‘has he got velcro?’” Pennant said. “I’ve never seen anyone manipulate a ball with so much close control like he can. It was ridiculous… you know his infamous flick over his head? You know it’s coming, but you still can’t stop it.”
While Kanu wasn’t the fastest player on the pitch, his vision, creativity, and silky touch made him one of the most unpredictable and entertaining forwards the Premier League ever saw.
Kanu’s legacy of brilliance beyond Arsenal
Kanu’s Arsenal spell between 1999 and 2004 remains one of the fondest chapters in his storied career.
Signed by Arsène Wenger from Inter Milan, he went on to score 44 goals in 198 appearances for the Gunners, including a famous hat-trick against Chelsea at Stamford Bridge that cemented his cult-hero status.
His composure and genius earned him two Premier League titles and two FA Cups, while also becoming a key figure in the legendary “Invincibles” era.
Kanu’s magic was not limited to North London as he was already an Olympic gold medalist with Nigeria and a UEFA Champions League winner with Ajax before stepping into the Premier League spotlight.
Off the pitch, he remains a beloved figure across Africa, not only for his achievements but also for his philanthropy through the Kanu Heart Foundation, which has helped save countless lives.
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