Iwobi has no plans to quit Super Eagles — Source close to the player

Alex Iwobi was subjected to cyberbullying following the Super Eagles’ AFCON final defeat to Ivory Coast. 

This forced the Fulham midfielder to delete all posts on his Instagram, and it sparked speculation about him possibly calling it quits with the national team. 

However, a recent report quoted an individual, allegedly close to Iwobi, saying the former Arsenal man was unaffected by the online tirade and has no plans to excuse himself from international duty. 

The Super Eagles team swiftly bandied around Iwobi following online abuse, with members of the squad putting out solidarity posts. 

He also had a meeting with the honourable sports minister of the federation, Mr John Enoh, on the issue. 

A report from renowned journalist Osasu Obayiuwana addressed the rumours claiming Iwobi was considering retirement. 

The report quoted an individual said to be very close with the former Everton midfielder. 

“Alex is totally unaffected by all the noise that has been making the rounds,” the statement for the individual who asked to be made anonymous began. 

“He has no plans to quit the Eagles, as he loves playing for his country. He cannot be hounded out by the opinions of people whose opinions don’t matter…

“Mental strength is key in this business, and Alex wouldn’t be playing at this level for over 9 years if he was weak. He is now a veteran of the game, and doesn’t allow such negativity to get to him. 

“There will always be haters and trolls but the majority of #Nigerians love him and appreciate his talent and what he has achieved.”

Meanwhile, Iwobi and the rest of the Super Eagles team arrived in Nigeria today, and they were received by the presidency at the Federal Capital Territory. 

The players were conferred national honours and were also gifted real estate in the country’s capital.