“It Was Mad!” — Alex Iwobi Opens Up on Shock Arsenal Exit, Says He Has No Regrets

Former Arsenal and Everton midfielder Alex Iwobi has opened up about the dramatic circumstances surrounding his unexpected exit from the Emirates Stadium in 2019, saying he has no regrets about the decision.

In an honest conversation on Inside Scoop, the Nigerian international revealed that he was on holiday with his family when his agent informed him of a last-minute bid from Everton. At first, he was skeptical — until the full picture came into view.

“It’s nice to know they [Everton] want me, what do you think?” Iwobi recalled asking his agent. “I don’t know, I’m 50/50. Then my agent said, ‘Alex, Arsenal have already handed in the medical.’”

That was the shocker.

Arsenal Chose Profit Over Passion

Iwobi said the Gunners’ decision came after the club spent £72 million on Nicolas Pepe, needing to balance their books with a key sale — and he was the chosen one.

“It was mad. I was like, Arsenal want to let go of me. I guess it’s time for a new challenge,” he said.

The versatile midfielder, who came through Arsenal’s academy and made 149 appearances, admitted the decision wasn’t easy — but ultimately right.

No Regrets, Just Growth

Since leaving, Iwobi has grown into a dependable presence in midfield, with spells at Everton and now Fulham, while continuing to represent Nigeria’s Super Eagles with pride.

“I don’t regret it. It’s all part of my journey. I needed to step out and prove myself,” he added.

💬 OPINION: Arsenal’s Loss Was Iwobi’s Rebirth

For fans who watched Iwobi blossom from a shy academy boy into a confident first-team regular, his sudden departure felt rushed — even unfair. But in hindsight, Iwobi's decision to leave was a bold, mature step. It’s one thing to be pushed out — it’s another to take that push and build something stronger with it.

The irony? Arsenal never truly replaced his versatility or work rate, and £72 million man Pepe struggled to match expectations.

Iwobi’s journey is a reminder that sometimes, rejection is the start of redirection.

⚽ From Hale End to global stages, Alex Iwobi continues to prove why he’s not just a product of Arsenal — but a player built for resilience.

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