---
title: "Iwobi explains reasons for snubbing England"
canonical: "https://readarsenal.com/2017/11/15/iwobi-explains-reasons-for-snubbing-england/"
type: "post"
language: "en-GB"
author: "Charlie Smith"
section: "Articles"
published: "2017-11-15T13:16:36Z"
modified: "2017-11-15T13:16:36Z"
---

# Iwobi explains reasons for snubbing England

Despite appearing for England at youth level, Alex Iwobi decided in 2015 to represent Nigeria at senior level, and has recently explained why, in a report by the [Mirror](https://www.mirror.co.uk/sport/football/news/arsenal-star-alex-iwobi-reveals-11523864).

The Arsenal midfielder admitted it was an extremely tough decision, however, stated his family played a main role in the decision, including former Bolton Wanderers star and Iwobi’s uncle Jay-Jay Okocha, who is a Nigerian legend.

Speaking to the media in Nigeria, Iwobi said:

> I was growing up in England and England was the only national team I knew, so I was actually very pleased to play at national level. However, my family are all from Nigeria, I was born in Nigeria, my uncle (Jay-Jay Okocha) is a legend in Nigeria. I went to the Under 23’s and somehow felt more welcome, and I thought it’s where I belong, so I made the decision to switch.

![Epsilon/Getty Images Sport](https://cdn.readeverything.co/wp-content/uploads/2017/11/874198878.jpg)

Iwobi has shone for Nigeria since the switch two years ago, and starred in their recent shock 4-2 win over Argentina, a game which saw Iwobi find the back of the net on two occasions.

After his stellar performance for his national side, Iwobi will be hoping Arsene Wenger was keeping a close eye on him, as he looks to nail down a regular starting spot for the Gunners, starting this Saturday in the North London derby.