Alex Iwobi: Why Super Eagles star has ‘no regret’ choosing Nigeria over England ahead of career milestone

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Alex Iwobi says he has never regretted turning his back on England’s youth teams to represent Nigeria as he prepares to reach a major milestone with the Super Eagles, Afrik‑Foot reports.

The Fulham midfielder is expected to earn his 100th cap when Nigeria take on Cristiano Ronaldo’s Portugal in an international friendly on Wednesday. If he features in the match, the 30‑year‑old will become the fastest player in Super Eagles history to reach 100 appearances.

Iwobi made his senior debut for Nigeria against the Democratic Republic of Congo in October 2015 and is now on the verge of reaching a century of caps just 10 years and 245 days later. That would see him break the record previously held by former captain Ahmed Musa, who reached the landmark in October 2021, 11 years and 35 days after his debut.

Looking back on his international journey, Iwobi said representing Nigeria has always felt like the right decision despite spending his early international years with England’s U16, U17 and U18 teams.

“I am proud to be where I am today; proud to wear the green‑and‑white,” Iwobi told the NFF Media. “I am grateful to everyone, including the coach who called me up to the team for the first time. I have no regrets choosing Nigeria.”

“I first went to the Nigeria U23 team camp and felt at home. I had represented England at youth level but always felt Nigeria was home.”

Super Eagles and Fulham midfielder Alex Iwobi

Alex Iwobi: A decade of service and memorable moments

Iwobi revealed that his father played an important role during the decision‑making process but allowed him to choose his own path.

“My father always told me to go out there and enjoy my football, and make the decision that I felt was good for me. He was part of the decision but he didn’t force it down on me.”

Over the past decade, the former Arsenal and Everton midfielder has become one of Nigeria’s most dependable players. He has amassed 99 caps and scored 10 goals, represented the country at the 2018 FIFA World Cup, and featured in four Africa Cup of Nations tournaments.

His achievements with the national team include a silver medal at the 2023 AFCON and bronze medals in 2019 and 2025. He is also Nigeria’s most‑capped active international and ranks among the most experienced players in the country’s history.

Despite those accomplishments, Iwobi remains humble about his place in Nigerian football.

“After 10 years and eight months, I won’t say I am a legend; I only see myself as a Super Eagles’ player.”

“It feels great to be looking at a 100th cap, and on a lighter note, I wish I can add another 100 caps. I have enjoyed my time with the Super Eagles.”

Among his many memories in green and white, Iwobi considers one moment above all others: his winning goal against Zambia in Uyo in October 2017, a strike that secured Nigeria’s place at the 2018 FIFA World Cup in Russia.

At club level, Iwobi has also enjoyed a successful Premier League career, graduating from Arsenal’s academy, winning the FA Cup, completing a £34 million move to Everton in 2019, and later joining Fulham in 2023.