Super Eagles midfielder Alex Iwobi has etched his name among Africa’s footballing greats after achieving a remarkable milestone in Fulham’s 2-2 draw with Ipswich Town at Craven Cottage on Saturday.
By featuring in the match, the former Arsenal star became only the fifth African player to make at least 50 Premier League appearances for three different clubs — a testament to his consistency and longevity at the highest level.
A Record of Consistency
Iwobi’s latest achievement places him in elite company alongside some of the continent’s finest footballers.
Nigeria’s all-time Premier League top scorer Yakubu Ayegbeni reached this feat with spells at Portsmouth, Middlesbrough, and Everton.
Fellow Nigerian legend Nwankwo Kanu achieved the same with Arsenal, West Bromwich Albion, and Portsmouth.
Senegalese icon and two-time African Player of the Year El Hadji Diouf also accomplished this milestone with Liverpool, Bolton Wanderers, and Blackburn Rovers, while Mohamed Diame, another African standout, achieved it during his time at Wigan Athletic, West Ham United, and Newcastle United.
Journey to the Top
Iwobi’s Premier League journey began at boyhood club Arsenal, where he rose through the ranks to become a key player before departing in the summer of 2019.
Everton secured his signature for €30.4 million, a move that saw the midfielder play an instrumental role in keeping the Toffees in the Premier League during challenging seasons.
His efforts did not go unnoticed, earning him the Everton Players’ Player of the Year award for two consecutive seasons.
In 2022, Iwobi made the switch back to London, joining Fulham, where he has continued to shine.
Fulham Contributions
Since joining the Cottagers, the 28-year-old has made 55 appearances, contributing 11 goals and providing five assists.
While Fulham’s draw against Ipswich Town may not have been the desired result, Iwobi’s record-breaking performance offers personal consolation and further cements his legacy in Premier League history.