Super Eagles midfielder Alex Iwobi has revealed that players are sometimes required to book their own flights whenever they are called up to represent Nigeria.
Speaking on the “Beast Mode On” podcast hosted by Adebayo Akinfenwa, the Fulham star reflected on his journey with the national team and the challenges he encountered after switching his international allegiance from England to Nigeria.
Iwobi, who has earned over 100 caps for the Super Eagles since making his debut in 2015, said he was close to representing England’s senior national team before deciding to honour Nigeria’s invitation.
According to him, his father and uncle encouraged him to give Nigeria a chance before making a final decision.
“I spoke to my dad and my uncle, and they said, ‘At least give Nigeria a try, and if you don’t like it, then you can say you’ve given that a go.’”
Recalling his first experience with the team, Iwobi said players sometimes had to make their own travel arrangements and deal with difficult conditions in camp.
“I went to Nigeria. Obviously, you have to sort out your own flight. We were like three in my room. You get to the hotel, and there’s no electricity. You wash your own kit.”
He also described the training facilities at the time, saying:
“The pitch is only half grass, half astroturf. If you make one bad pass, the coach is screaming at you.”
Despite the challenges, Iwobi said the warmth and support he received from Nigerians convinced him he had made the right decision.
“But I loved the food. I just felt like I was at home. I had not even made a name for myself at Arsenal; I was still on the verge. But I was getting celebrated by Nigerians. The love I was getting was mad.”
Over the years, members of Nigeria’s national teams have occasionally raised concerns over issues such as delayed flight reimbursements, unpaid camp allowances and inadequate training facilities.
Iwobi has represented Nigeria at multiple Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) tournaments, winning both silver and bronze medals, and was also part of the Super Eagles squad at the 2018 FIFA World Cup in Russia.