‘The spirit has always been with me’ — Iwobi on why he dumped England for Super Eagles

Fulham midfielder Alex Iwobi has opened up on his decision to represent Nigeria at international level, revealing that a deep connection to his roots ultimately led him to choose the Super Eagles over England.

Despite growing up in London and coming through England’s youth system, Iwobi says Nigeria always felt like home.

A product of Arsenal’s Hale End Academy, Iwobi was eligible to play for England after featuring at youth level between the ages of 16 and 19. However, the midfielder explained that his upbringing was shaped just as strongly by Nigerian culture.

"Quick disclaimer: I was born in Nigeria. I was eight months old when I moved over here. Obviously, I grew up in London," Iwobi said. "I've grown up in the English culture, but at home it was always the Nigerian culture — the Nigerian food."

He added that trying both systems was important before making a final decision. "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."

His experience with Nigeria proved decisive. "When I went to try Nigeria, I felt more at home, like the Nigerian spirit has always been within me."

Iwobi was first invited to the Super Eagles in 2015 and later made his senior debut against DR Congo at just 19.

Since then, he has grown into a key figure for Nigeria, earning 91 caps and closing in on Ahmed Musa’s all-time appearance record.

The former Arsenal man insists he has no regrets about his choice. "Of course, I respect England, but it's nice that I have gone back to the Nigerian team," he said, noting that more players are embracing their roots across international football.

Named in Nigeria’s squad for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations, Iwobi is expected to link up with the Super Eagles in Cairo after Fulham’s Premier League clash with Burnley, continuing a journey he believes was always destined to be Nigerian.