It Affected him — Super Eagles star Alex Iwobi clams ex-teammate could have won Ballon d'Or

It Affected him — Super Eagles star Alex Iwobi clams ex-teammate could have won Ballon d'Or

Ifeanyi Ufomadu 17:33 - 21.05.2025

Super Eagles of Nigeria and Fulham midfielder Alex Iwobi has revealed that a former teammate could have been a contender for this year's Ballon d'Or, alongside Barcelona's Lamine Yamal.

The 2025 Ballon d'Or continues to dominate headlines, with the likes of Lamine Yamal, Ousmane Dembele and Raphinha believed to be the frontrunners.

The award may well come down to the winners of the UEFA Champions League, and with Barcelona already out of the competition, Ousmane Dembele could have a clear run at the award.

The English Premier League could produce one candidate for the podium in Mohamed Salah, but according to Fulham star Alex Iwobi, things may have been different.

The Nigerian midfielder believes Arsenal star and former teammate Bukayo Saka could have been contending for this year's Ballon d'Or if he hadn't picked up an injury.

Bukayo Saka celebrates a goal for Arsenal Photo. Imago

Iwobi, who left Arsenal for Everton in 2019, noted that one of the things that has helped his former teammate is that he listens, is humble, and always ready to learn.

Bukayo Saka has contributed 18 goals this season for Arsenal across competitions. | Imago
Bukayo Saka | Imago

“I think that’s really what’s helped him,” the Fulham midfielder said.

“I think if he didn’t get injured, he’d potentially be a Ballon d’Or nominee. I think the sky is the limit, man. He’s too cold.”

Saka missed a significant part of the season with injury but returned to help Arsenal reach the semifinal of the Champions League and finish second in the league.

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