I have been fairly critical of the lack of ambition shown in this transfer window, yet Unai Emery might have done his best bit of business getting over 20 million for Alex Iwobi.
Wherever that fee would be used to buy someone else or put straight in the bank is a debate for another day, the fact is there are individuals who do not belong on our payroll. No one doubts the Nigerian’s ability on the ball but he has a lack of confidence in his final ball, both in terms of a key pass and finishing. Statistics back that up and if you are an attacking midfielder who’s not confident in the final third you don’t have a lot left.
Iwobi has often escaped critiscism in my opinion having broke through our youth ranks, every fan wants one of their own to succeed and therefore give him more chances then others. Imagine what would’ve been said had Ozil been out partying 24 hours before an FA Cup defeat. In an inexperienced squad, Iwobi should’ve taken responsibility to be our main man against Nottm Forest but went missing when things started going wrong. He’s an example of Arsene Wenger putting too much trust in an individual without ever having them feel any pressure.
We were always told this was a player better for his country than his club yet he was dropped after one game at the World Cup. Perhaps Iwobi would be better suited at a level where the demand is not to win every week. That’s why a loan switch seemed a compromise. It would ‘ve given him 12 months out of his comfort zone to prove he belongs at the Emirates.
But for him, at a time we have a limited transfer kitty would be too good too turn down.