Fulham midfielder Alex Iwobi has shared insight into the different environments he experienced while representing England at youth level and later committing his international career to Nigeria.
Born in Lagos but raised in England, Iwobi first developed within England’s youth national team system before eventually switching allegiance to the Super Eagles at senior level. Reflecting on his time in both setups, the midfielder described clear contrasts in organisation, preparation, and daily routines.
Speaking during an interview shared by High Performance on Instagram, the 29-year-old explained that England’s national team structure operates under strict guidelines, particularly during training camps.
According to Iwobi, players within the England setup are usually based at St George’s Park or placed in tightly controlled hotel environments where access is limited and routines are carefully managed.
“Playing for England and playing for Nigeria themselves are very different. England’s a bit more strict. In St George’s Park, or you’re in a hotel. No one’s allowed to come in, strict food, strict regime, that’s it.”
However, his early experiences with Nigeria’s youth teams exposed him to a very different reality. The midfielder recalled situations where travel arrangements were not always organised in advance.
In some cases, players had to handle their own flight bookings, and upon arrival, transport from the airport was not always guaranteed.
“Sometimes your flight’s not booked properly. You have to book your own flight. You get there now… sometimes the people at the airport are not ready to pick you up, so sometimes you have to make your own way.”
Iwobi also mentioned that accommodation conditions could occasionally present challenges during those early camps.
“The hotels are OK. Sometimes the light goes out; sometimes you don’t have anywhere to charge your phone.”
Despite the differences between the two national team environments, the decision that ultimately shaped his international career came after encouragement from family members.
The former Arsenal player explained that both his father and uncle urged him to give Nigeria an opportunity before making a final decision.
“My uncle and my dad said just at least try once with Nigeria, so I tried on the under-23 just to see, and then I can compare what I prefer.”
That experience eventually led Iwobi to commit to Nigeria. He went on to make his senior debut for the Super Eagles in October 2015.
Years later, the midfielder says he remains comfortable with the choice he made, despite having strong ties to England where he spent most of his upbringing.
“It took a lot of convincing… but I have no regrets. I did love England. I feel like because I grew up in a Nigerian household, Nigeria’s always been a part of me.”
Since switching allegiance, Iwobi has grown into an important member of the Nigerian national team and continues to represent the country at international level.
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