Super Eagles forward, Alex Iwobi, has revealed why he left Arsenal to join Everton.
Iwobi joined the Merseyside club on England’s transfer deadline day to become Marco Silva’s seventh signing of the season.
The Nigeria international, who came through the ranks at Arsenal, said he was looking to remove the “youngster” tag and make a name for himself at Everton.
The 23-year-old signed a five-year deal with the Toffees, after the clubs agreed an initial £28 million deal, which could reportedly rise to £34 million with add-ons.
He was a regular member of Unai Emery’s squad last season, featuring in 35 Premier League games. However, he said the chance to join Everton was too good to turn down, after talking to manager, Silva, and Director of Football, Marcel Brands.
“I spoke to the manager and Marcel and they almost lured me in,” Iwobi told Evertontv.
“The offer was too attractive for me to turn down.”
“The manager was telling me, ‘There is a spot for you, we will take care of you’. Basically, all the things you want to hear as a player.
“I always had that youngster tag at Arsenal, so hopefully with this move I am able to make a name for myself in the Premier League and create history with Everton.”
He also said he is hoping that Silva manager will be able to help him grow in a similar way to Richarlison, who enjoyed an excellent first season at the club, after the Brazilian followed the Portuguese boss from Watford.
“It is exciting times for Everton,” Iwobi added. I was able to look at the transfers and players they have brought in – some great talent. It is not just me. There were quality players here before [the summer] and they are still here.The manager has worked with Richarlison for a long while and made a name for him. Hopefully he can do the same for not just me but Moise Kean and a few others who came in, too.”
Iwobi, who helped Nigeria to a third-place finish at the 2019 AFCON in Egypt, scored 15 goals for the Gunners in 149 appearances. He also provided 23 assists.
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