EPL top 10 chance creators: Is Super Eagles’ Iwobi being misused by Eric Chelle?

Super Eagles and Fulham FC star, Alex Iwobi, is currently among the Premier League’s top 10 chance creators this season, Soccernet.ng reports.

Meanwhile, questions have begun to mount in the Nigerian football community about whether the former Arsenal forward is being utilized by Eric Chelle, as his role with the Super Eagles appears to be limiting his impact.

Most Chances Created at Fulham

According to Statmuse, Iwobi has created 49 chances in the Premier League so far in the 2024-25 season campaign, more than any other Fulham player. He ranks ahead of Andreas Pereira, who has 46; Antonee Robinson, who has 36; Adam Traoré, 32; and Sasa Lukic, who has 21.

Across the entire league, only a handful of names are ahead of him — with Manchester United’s Bruno Fernandes and Chelsea’s Cole Palmer topping the list with 71 chances created each.

Position at the Fulham vs Super Eagles

At Fulham, Iwobi plays primarily as a right attacking midfielder (RAM) or just behind the striker in a central role.

The Nigerian international is given the license to roam, link play, and initiate attacks. This tactical freedom has led to a productive return of seven goals and four assists in 30 EPL matches this season.

However, for Nigeria, it’s been a different story.

In Nigeria’s 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers against Rwanda and Zimbabwe, Iwobi looked far less effective. Against Rwanda, he was part of a rigid 4-5-1 system and lacked the structure and support to influence play.

Against Zimbabwe, he was deployed as a left attacking midfielder (LAM)—far removed from the areas where he does the most damage in a Fulham shirt.

Rather than orchestrating attacks, Iwobi was often seen tracking back and drifting across midfield with little purpose, which can be said to be a “tactical underutilization”.

What Should Eric Chelle Do?

If Nigeria is to make the most of one of its most in-form stars, the Malian gaffer must rethink Iwobi’s role in the team.

The Fulham man thrives when allowed to operate close to the striker, where his sharp passing can open up defenses.

Playing Iwobi in his natural role — or giving him a free creative role — could unlock an entirely different level of attacking play for the Super Eagles.

With critical qualifiers around the corner, it’s time for Chelle to play to Iwobi’s strengths — or risk wasting a player who, week in and week out, proves he can create chances at the very top level.