Victor Anichebe has claimed that Nwankwo Kanu created a number of Arsenal fans in Africa.
The Nigerian star arrived in North London from Inter Milan in 1999, and enjoyed five successful seasons with the club including leaving after their infamous Invincibles season.
He won five trophies in total with the club, including two Premier League titles and two FA Cups, and became a hero for a number of people in the continent of Africa.
Former Everton youth product Anichebe admitted that he was an admirer of the former Arsenal star, and even described himself as ‘star-struck’ when he was called up to play for Nigeria alongside him.
“I came into the national team with Kanu, kind of star-struck when I saw him. The long journey he had in his career in the Premier League,” Anichebe told Premier League Productions (Via ANS).
“He got a lot of Africans and Nigerians especially to support Arsenal not just for his performances on the pitch but his Foundation.
“He’s one that we love in our country especially.”
Kanu will no doubt be remembered for his skills and technique, as well as being a part of the famous unbeaten side of 2003-04, but he is also one of very few players who can boast winning the Champions League, UEFA Cup, FA Cup, Premier League and an Olympic Gold medal.
Is Kanu’s career under-rated in some circles?
Patrick
I think Iwobi had the same effect also
The Nigerian Pirlo with his dancing feet ,Dam I miss that lad and his skills .
Dan I miss ozil pre assist everyday.
Kanu was a spectacular player alright.
Nigerians no doubt were very proud of him staring on the European footballing stage and yes the connection with Arsenal remains strong to this day.
The only reason he may be regarded as being a little undervalued is that he played at Arsenal at a time when every player was a superstar when the club was winning the League title.
Also he was more of an impact player from the bench rather than a starter.
But I always believed that Kanu in full cry was a sight to behold.
I miss not having such a swashbuckling player in today’s group.
Even if your not winning trophies at least entertain. Arsenal and Spurs don’t win big trophies any more but nor do they entertain.
Crowds used to provide the atmosphere if the game was not exciting but now every game looks like a training session devoid of any entertainment.
We need to sign Mario Balotelli which will really fire the fans up 😃
Hello, I am not from Africa, I’m from Asia. I remember when I was a schoolboy, always waiting for the 75th minute of games because I knew Kanu was coming on. Truthfully I skipped the boat from Cantona to Arsenal because of Kanu, I know it’s unforgivable but I have never left since.
Kanu is a legendary figure, an icon of football and humanity in Nigeria. Iwobi doesn’t come close in skill or desire. Iwobi doesn’t even have a following in Nigeria, we barely care.
Kanu and Arsenal are a culture here
Kanu and Iwobi, the by talent, equivalent of LIttle and LA Large!
What about signing Patson Daka and convert new Zambian fans to our club? 🙂
Well Balogun has put pen to paper and gonna play Arsenal till 2025. He had 15 offers he rejected all after being convinced by MA and EDU to stay.
Great news, Dhoni 🥳
You know it dear.💪💪 But wait a min…….We have EL to play so i will not get excited yet.
Arsenal used to have skilfull players: Kanu, Henry, Bergkamp, Petit, Pires, Overmas, Van Persie, Carzola, Sanchez, Hleb. I just miss Arsenal brand of football
Honesty as a proud Nigerian, Kanu endeared me 2 Arsenal. Fresh 4rm winning the Olympic gold, champions league with Ajax alongside George Finidi, Arsenal bought him 4rm Inter with a weak heart & treated him at Cleveland Ohio. I fell 4 Arsenal cuz of the love & confidence the club had on a compatriot, & he delivered even at the time Ferguson was match fixing the EPL. He’s a god here in Nigeria, a hero & a role model. Every Nigerian loves the iconic star cuz aside Arsenal, he made a name b4 & after his Arsenal days. A Portsmouth ambassador till date. LEGEND!!!
Kanu heart defect was discovered and treated at Inter Milan in 1996 upon his return from the glorious Olympics football gold medal. He was operated on in 1996 and he returned to football in 1997 against all odds. He joined Arsenal in 1999.
I always talk about him to my sons as I thought he was a superb player.He rarely gets a mention compared to some of the great players we had at the time.He looked a bit awkward with his big feet but he was very skilful and he is worth looking up on You-tube for a reminder of his talent especially his hat-trick against Chelsea.
Class player, always was one of my favourites to watch. Could make defenders fall over with the slightest flinch.