As someone who is grafted to make a career in football, Fulham winger Alex Iwobi is used to training hard and Premier League match days for Arsenal, Everton and now Fulham.
Although, that is not where he gets all his kicks. When it comes to playing, enjoyment is at the forefront.
“I always like to entertain with the ball at my feet, whether that’s a skill or trying to score, especially with friends,” he told Forbes.
“Professionally, you have to be a bit more serious. You have to try and win at all costs. Playing with my friends is where I feel most free.”
Iwobi, who completed a deal worth up to €25 million ($27 million) from Everton to mid-table Fulham in September, has experienced both edges to the Premier League.
Breaking through at Arsenal, he showed his flair in an elite attacking setup under former coaches Arsène Wenger and Unai Emery. For struggling Everton, he was among the players scrapping to preserve Everton’s near 70-year stay in the top tier.
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Back in London, where he grew up, Fulham will hope the 27-year-old—whose résumé includes an FA Cup winners medal, World Cup and Champions League knowhow and a stellar Europa League final goal—can bring both quality and grit as the club works to build on a 10th place league standing last term.
A fully-fledged Nigeria international with 63 appearances, Iwobi doesn’t need to look far to find soccer inspiration. The forward says he admired Ronaldinho during the Brazilian’s days at Barcelona, but there have been few more entertaining Premier League players than his uncle, former midfielder Jay-Jay Okocha. Iwobi’s answer is clear when asked whether the former Bolton Wanderers magician has impacted his approach.
“100%. Especially growing up as a kid and having him as an idol, watching him, and him telling me to play with a smile on my face,” Iwobi responds. “I saw him enjoying football (soccer) with his flair and skills. So, I try and do the same, but in my style. Even off the field, he’s always advised me. And he’s someone who loves his fashion, too. I’ve bumped into him a couple of times when going shopping. He’s someone I look up to.”