Alex Iwobi, a midfielder for Fulham, disclosed that when Super Eagles players are asked to play for Nigeria, they occasionally have to cover their own airfare.
In an interview with Adebayo Akinfenwa for the “Beast Mode On” podcast, Alex Iwobi discussed his initial encounter with the Nigerian national team.
After playing for the nation’s youth teams, the 30-year-old, who has made over 100 appearances for Nigeria since his debut in 2015, said he nearly decided to play for England at the senior level.
He said, “I spoke to my dad and my uncle, and they said ‘at least give Nigeria a try, and if I don’t like it, then you can say you’ve given that a go’. I went to Nigeria. Obviously, you have to sort out your own flight. We were like three in my room. You get to the hotel, and there’s no electricity. You wash your own kit.
“The pitch is only half grass, half astroturf. If you make one bad pass, the coach is screaming at you.”
But I loved the food. I just felt like I was at home. I had not even made a name for myself at Arsenal; I was still on the verge. But I was getting celebrated by Nigerians. The love I was getting was mad.”
It is crucial for the Nigeria Football Association to prioritize the well-being and comfort of all players. When players feel supported and secure, they can perform at their best and remain focused on their game. Many players prefer working outside because they believe that in case of injury, they will receive proper care and support. Ensuring a safe and caring environment will not only boost player confidence but also foster a stronger, more resilient team dedicated to representing Nigeria with pride.
