Following Alex Iwobi’s unexpected transfer deadline day switch from Arsenal to Everton, football legends, manager, and analysts have continued to weigh in their comments, opinions and objections.
The Super Eagles playmaker departed the Emirates Stadium to make Goodison Park is new home in a five-year-deal that cost Everton a reported £35 million.
👋 | A message from our new number 1️⃣7️⃣…
We can’t wait to see you in 🔵 either, @alexiwobi! #EFC pic.twitter.com/rxZ04tj5JQ
— Everton (@Everton) August 9, 2019
The move, which was not even on the cards until the deadline day eve when the Toffees switched their attention from long-term target Crystal Palace’s Wilfried Zaha to the former Arsenal graduate, has continued to generate debate among football lovers in the country.
While some believe the transfer could spur the 23-year-old to become an even better player, others argue that leaving the Gunners was a mistake.
Nothing but love, @alexiwobi ❤️ pic.twitter.com/Jz0m4PJr71
— Arsenal (@Arsenal) August 9, 2019
However, for former Super Eagles goalkeeper Ike Shorunmu, Iwobi has made the right move for his career.
“I’m not surprised at all. Instead, I would say it is nice decision. No player wants to sit on the bench. Every player wants to be involved game in, game out,” the former Besiktas of Turkey goaltender said.
“And when you see yourself not playing as regularly as you would want, then you look for where you gonna enjoy regular playing time, which is what Iwobi has just done.
“I salute him for his decision. I salute him for his courage and of course, playing more regularly will help his career and equally benefit the Super Eagles.”
Henry
Pires
Cole
Hleb
Adebayor
Toure
Fabregas
Nasri
Clichy
Van Persie
Podolski
Sagna
Szczesny
Gnabry
Wilshere
Oxlade-Chamberlain
Sanchez
Walcott
Giroud
Cazorla
RamseyIn the last 12 years, all of these players have left Arsenal.
Alex Iwobi cost more than any of them.
— bet365 (@bet365) August 8, 2019
Ex-Gunner, Nwankwo Kanu knows all about leaving Arsenal for pastures anew and he has thrown his weight behind the Nigeria international’s decision to quit Unai Emery’s side.
Once a Gunner, Always a Gunner. We are proud of you @alexanderiwobi and will continue to support you. Good luck with your new club.
.#big17 #naijaprince #arsenal #everton #transferwindow #premierleauge #football #newseason pic.twitter.com/4kPOQhJtfG— Kanu Nwankwo (@papilokanu) August 8, 2019
Everton manager Marco Silva has also not wasted time in heaping praises on his newest signing.
Marco Silva with plenty to say on the potential of Alex Iwobi and what he will bring to the Everton squad. pic.twitter.com/IbXIEWWEDQ
— Ian Croll (@Iancroll1) August 9, 2019
“Alex was one of our main targets for this window and I believe he is a fantastic signing for Everton. He is a direct and skilful winger and attacking midfielder who always works very hard for his team,” Silva told Everton’s official website.
“He is still young but already with a lot of top-level experience – 100 Premier League matches, more in Europe and many international games.”
ARSENAL boss Unai Emery also penned a heartwarming message to Alex Iwobi following the midfielder departure for Everton late on deadline day.
“Alex has made a big contribution here at Arsenal,” the Spaniard told arsenal.com
“He worked hard in the academy where he was an example to many young players and has been an important part of our squad.
“We wish Alex every success in the future.”
A few fans have also had their say.
Dear @alexiwobi, You may not be a great finisher, you may not be the best of em all, but in me you'll always have a fan. Thank you and all the best for the future bro and I hope you scale to greater heights and reach your full potential at Everton. all the best #BIG17
— WelBeast (@WellBeast) August 9, 2019
Classy exit by @alexiwobi. Talented young player who always gave it 100%. I wish him well at Everton. 👍 https://t.co/GXFnNj7e5z
— Piers Morgan (@piersmorgan) August 9, 2019
Good luck to top man Alex Iwobi on his move to @Everton Sad to see him go but going to another great football club. pic.twitter.com/8Pr0ofmWEF
— Stuart MacFarlane (@Stuart_PhotoAFC) August 9, 2019
https://www.twitter.com/ForeverEverton0/status/1159837427512401921
Thank you Alex Iwobi 🙏🏼 #BIG17 https://t.co/eGz5CVjE8M
— Azel Amae (@lifeofazel__) August 8, 2019
Alex Iwobi and Everton face Crystal Palace on the opening weekend of the Premier League season as the Super Eagles’ AFCON bronze medalist begin a new chapter in his career.
