Alex Iwobi has spoken candidly about the differences between playing for England and the Nigeria national team, highlighting challenges faced while on international duty with Nigeria.
Speaking about the structure within the England setup, Iwobi described it as highly organized and strict in its operations.
“With England, it’s a bit more strict. You’re in St. George’s Park or you’re in a hotel, no one’s allowed to come in, strict food, strict regime that’s it,” he said.
The midfielder explained that his first real experience with the Nigerian setup came when he joined the country’s Under 23 team.
“Nigeria now… sometimes your flights are not booked properly, you have to book your own flight.
“You get there and sometimes the people at the airport are not ready to pick you up, so you have to make your own way,” he said.
Iwobi also revealed some of the challenges players occasionally experienced during national team camps, particularly regarding accommodation and basic facilities.
“The hotels are okay. Sometimes the light goes, sometimes you don’t have anywhere to charge your phone.
“In England no one’s allowed in the hotel. Nigeria, people can come in your room whenever they want,” he added.
Also read: Juwon Oshaniwa Questions Future of Home-Based Players in Super Eagles
Despite those early experiences, Iwobi explained that his family played an important role in deciding his international future.
“My uncle and my dad said, just at least try once with Nigeria. So I tried the under 23s just to see, and then I could compare what I prefer,” he said.
Ultimately, the midfielder chose to represent Nigeria and insists he has no regrets about the decision despite the initial doubts.
“It took a lot of convincing at the time… but I have no regrets. I did love England, but because I grew up in a Nigerian household, Nigeria has always been a part of me,” he stated.
Iwobi has since become a key player for Nigeria earning more than 90 caps for the Super Eagles.
He made his senior debut in 2015, at 19, in a friendly match against DR Congo.
Before switching his international allegiance, Iwobi represented England at youth level, making seven appearances for the Under 16, three for the Under 17, and one appearance for the Under 18 side.
