Alex Iwobi: Why the Fulham star could be the key to Eric Chelle’s new-look Super Eagles midfield

Super Eagles head coach Eric Chelle recently named his final 23-man squad to face Rwanda and Zimbabwe in Nigeria’s must-win World Cup qualification games, including Fulham’s in-form attacking midfielder Alex Iwobi, Footynaija.com reports.

Iwobi is having a stellar season at Craven Cottage, delivering his best-ever goal-scoring return since turning professional. With seven goals and four assists in 28 appearances for the West London club, the former Arsenal man has added a new dimension to his game under Marco Silva. 

As the Super Eagles prepare for their crucial 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers against Rwanda and Zimbabwe, Iwobi’s form makes him a vital piece in Chelle’s plans for a new-look Super Eagles midfield.  

Iwobi’s best season yet

Alex Iwobi having an under the radar elite season. Best of his career and turned into a top player!! https://t.co/uPOi9GO7AU

— Amar (@AmarVijh999) March 8, 2025

Iwobi’s move to Fulham from Everton in the summer of 2023 has revitalized his career. While he has always been known for his work rate, versatility and creativity, this season, he has significantly improved his goal-scoring output. 

His seven goals in all competitions already surpass any of his previous seasons, proving that he is becoming more decisive in the final third. This attacking improvement, combined with his playmaking ability, makes him an asset for Nigeria as they look to get their qualifying campaign back on track.  

Fitting into Eric Chelle’s midfield setup

Chelle has named Iwobi in his final 23-man squad, alongside midfielders like Wilfred Ndidi, Abdullahi Alhassan, Papa Mustapha Daniel, Raphael Onyedika and Joe Aribo. While the likes of Ndidi and Onyedika will provide defensive steel, Iwobi stands out as the creative heartbeat in that squad.  

In the past, the Super Eagles have struggled to find a balance between defensive solidity and attacking fluidity in the middle of the park. Iwobi’s current form and ability to link midfield to attack by driving forward with the ball, picking incisive passes and also contributing with goals could help Nigeria find this much needed balance.

A must-win situation for the Super Eagles

The Super Eagles currently face a do-or-die situation in the World Cup qualifiers, making these upcoming matches against Rwanda and Zimbabwe crucial. A poor start to their campaign has left them with no margin for error. 

Iwobi’s experience and form could be decisive in breaking down opposition defenses and ensuring the Super Eagles get maximum points. He has the ability to control the tempo of games and deliver in key moments, something Nigeria will need against two determined opponents.  

If the 28-year-old can replicate his club form for Nigeria, he could be the key to securing crucial victories against Rwanda and Zimbabwe to keep the Super Eagles’ World Cup hopes alive.