Arsenal, one of the biggest clubs in English football, have nurtured some really bright Nigerian talents through their prestigious Hale-End academy but only three Nigerians have received the honour of playing for the Gunners’ first team.
In this piece, Footynaija.com ranks this select Nigerian trio based on their impact at the Emirates Stadium. We’ll be taking you through their individual as well as collective achievements with the North London giants.
3. Chuba Akpom
Akpom arrived at Arsenal as a 16-year-old back in 2012. He went on to spend six years on the books of the Gunners but ultimately managed just 12 first team appearances across all competitions. His time in North London was characterized by multiple loan spells at clubs like Brentford, Coventry, Nottm Forest, Hull City, Brighton and St. Truiden. Despite this, he boasts one FA Cup and three Community Shields winner’s medals.
2. Alex Iwobi
Another player who arrived at Arsenal as a youngster, Iwobi joined the Gunners youth team setup in 2013 and after showing steady progress, was handed his first team debut at the Emirates just two years later. The Nigeria international quickly established himself as a key player for the North Londoners, particularly under the tutelage of Unai Emery. Iwobi racked up 149 appearances between 2015 and 2019, scoring 15 goals and registering 22 assists. He also helped Arsenal to 3 FA Cups and 3 Community Shield triumphs.
1. Nwankwo Kanu
Kanu, a legend of Nigerian and African football, joined Arsenal in 1999 after enduring a difficult three-year stint at Inter Milan. In North London, the then Nigeria international revived his career by becoming a crucial player for Arsene Wenger’s side. Kanu’s goal-scoring prowess, often as a super-sub, as well his two-fingered salute goal celebration made him a fan favourite at the club. During his five-year stay at the club, Kanu played 198 matches and scored 44 goals. He also won 2 Premier Leagues and FA Cups each as well as one FA Charity Shield. On a personal level, he clinched his second African Footballer of the Year award in his first year as an Arsenal player.