Nigerian international footballer Alex Iwobi has provided a detailed account of his transition from Arsenal F.C. to Everton F.C., explaining that the move came about while he was on an extended break after participating in the Africa Cup of Nations.
During an appearance on the High Performance podcast, Iwobi recounted receiving instructions from then-Arsenal manager Unai Emery to take an additional two weeks of holiday following his AFCON duties. It was during this period, while he was in Dubai with his family, that Arsenal secured the signing of winger Nicolas Pépé.
The acquisition of Pépé led Iwobi to question his standing at the club. He recalled thinking, "If you really want me, why are you signing another winger?" The uncertainty about his role at Arsenal intensified when his agent contacted him with news of Everton F.C.'s interest.
Iwobi described the moment his agent called, stating that Everton manager Marco Silva wished to speak with him. This occurred while Iwobi was in the ocean in Dubai, with limited mobile signal.
Before Iwobi could fully process the offer or make a decision, Arsenal had reportedly already forwarded his medical information to Everton. "Before I even had a chance to say yes or no, Arsenal basically said they don’t mind me going," he revealed.
After consulting with his parents and sister, Iwobi decided to accept the move to Everton, feeling it was the right time to leave his familiar environment. However, he acknowledged that the initial period after the transfer was challenging.
He admitted to experiencing loneliness, finding it difficult to adjust to a new city, and being away from his support network. "I’ve always been an Arsenal kid. Arsenal was all I knew. So going somewhere else and staying in a dark hotel room by myself—it was tough," Iwobi stated.
Despite the initial difficulties, the Nigerian international eventually found his footing and continued his career in the Premier League with Everton.
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