Alex Iwobi has moved to praise current manager Arsene Wenger amidst strong pressure for him to leave.
The Nigerian is the latest young player to emerge from the academy into a first-team regular, and the manager’s influence in his progression would clearly emphasise his importance at Arsenal.
Wenger has always had a knack for promoting youth into the first team over the years, a skill each of the top sides have overly struggled with since Sir Alex Ferguson left Manchester United.
Iwobi has now come out in the press to praise his under-fire boss, amidst strong calls and protests for his exit, to state his intention to play under Wenger beyond this summer.
He said: “He’s a great man, in my opinion. I’d like him to stay.
“He’s always helped me and developed me as player.
“I don’t think it’s fair the way everybody criticises him. It’s very unfair considering what he’s done.
“He’s always achieved fourth place, been in the Champions League and been up there with the title contenders.”
The Nigerian international was then asked about his thoughts on the Mesut Ozil and Alexis Sanchez situation, and he is of course hoping the duo will stay on at the club also.
“As you can see from stats, goals and chances they create they are key players in our team,” said Iwobi.
“Everything offensively almost goes through them. Even though we have other players they are world-class players.
“For the club it’d be great for them to stay, but at the end of the day it’s their decisions.”
Does Iwobi sound convinced that one of or both Ozil and Alexis will leave? Does he have to praise Wenger or does he believe he is best for the club?
Pat J