Alex Iwobi, the 30‑year‑old Nigerian midfielder, marked his 328th appearance in England’s top‑flight on Saturday, a milestone that places him level with Mohamed Salah as the joint‑second most‑featured African player in the [Premier League](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Premier_League). The feat came during Fulham’s 1‑0 win over Coventry City, and the [Nigeria Football Federation](https://www.thenff.com) promptly issued a congratulatory statement.
**What did the NFF say?**
Acting General Secretary Emmanuel Ikpeme said the federation “celebrates Alex Iwobi for this new achievement and we wish him even greater glory. We will be very happy to see him become the African with the most appearances in the Premier League in the near future.”
**Key facts about the achievement**
- Iwobi’s 328th Premier League match was played on 27 October 2026 at Craven Cottage.
- The appearance ties him with Liverpool’s Mohamed Salah, who also has 328 caps.
- Iwobi began his professional career at Arsenal before moving to Everton and later joining Fulham.
- The record he now pursues belongs to former Côte d’Ivoire international [Kolo Touré](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Kolo_Tour%C3%A9), who featured in 353 Premier League games for Arsenal, Manchester City and Liverpool.
**How does Iwobi’s record compare historically?**
African players have increasingly become mainstays in English football, but only a handful have crossed the 300‑appearance threshold. Prior to Iwobi and Salah, the highest‑ever tally for an African was held by Touré. Iwobi’s consistency and versatility—capable of playing both central and wide midfield roles—have enabled him to accumulate the appearances needed to challenge that benchmark.
**What lies ahead for Iwobi?**
With Fulham now positioned mid‑table, Iwobi will aim to stay fit and maintain his selection to edge past Touré’s 353‑match record. The midfielder’s experience is also valuable for the Nigerian national team, which will look to him for leadership ahead of upcoming Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers.
**Background on Iwobi’s career**
Born in Lagos and raised in England, Iwobi progressed through Arsenal’s academy, making his senior debut in 2015. After a spell at Everton, he signed for Fulham in 2022, where he has become a regular starter. His international resume includes over 50 caps for the Super Eagles, contributing to Nigeria’s 2019 Africa Cup of Nations runner‑up finish.
The NFF’s acknowledgment underscores the pride Nigeria takes in its players succeeding abroad, and Iwobi’s pursuit of the all‑time African appearance record adds another chapter to the nation’s football legacy.