The Everton star is sometimes called ‘Naija boy’, but his popular nickname is ‘Big 45 and Big 17’, and he has explained the reason behind the moniker
Almost all players have a nickname given to them. Cristiano Ronaldo is sometimes called CR7, while Lionel Messi is sometimes known as Leo.
While some players got their nickname through their original names, Super Eagles midfielder Alex Iwobi has revealed he was given his ‘Big 45’ moniker while coming through the ranks at Arsenal.
The 24-year-old is currently with the Toffees, but he started his career at Arsenal, making over 100 appearances for the first team.
Iwobi joined Arsenal’s academy at the age of nine, and it was during his time in the youth team he got the nickname.
The Nigeria international revealed he was given the No 45 jersey when he was with the Gunners youth team, although would later change it to No 17 when he became a full first team member.
“I actually loved Big 45 when I came into the scene in the first place, it was a youth team number at Arsenal, but they told me to change to a senior number, so the next available was 17.
“Ever since then, it’s been that number, and you’ve got to love it,” Iwobi told Soccer Bible in quotes gotten from the Echo.
Iwobi has kept the on wearing the No 17 jersey at Goodison Park.
