Super Eagles and Fulham midfielder, Alex Iwobi, has achieved a significant milestone, surpassing John Mikel Obi to become the fourth-highest capped Nigerian player in Premier League history.
Previously tied with Mikel at 249 appearances, Iwobi reached his 250th Premier League game during Fulham’s 1-1 draw against Crystal Palace at Craven Cottage on Saturday.
The 27-year-old played the full 90 minutes in the match.
Having achieved this feat, Iwobi now sets his sights on surpassing Yakubu Aiyegbeni, who holds third place with 252 appearances. Shola Ameobi leads the chart with 298 appearances, followed by Nwankwo Kanu with 273.
Alex Iwobi’s journey to this milestone began in October 2015, when he made his Premier League debut for Arsenal. Coming off the bench in stoppage time to replace Mesut Özil, Iwobi played a small but significant role in Arsenal’s 3-0 victory over Swansea City.
Since that debut, the Lagos-born midfielder has been a consistent presence in the Premier League midfield, showcasing his skills and contributing 22 goals to his team’s cause over the course of his career.
Looking beyond Alex Iwobi’s individual achievement, there is a subtle shift in the landscape of the Premier League. While the top ten all-time appearance makers in the competition are predominantly retired legends, four active players remain on the list: Iwobi himself, Victor Moses, Kelechi Iheanacho, and Wilfred Ndidi.
This signals a changing tide, with a new generation of Nigerian footballers poised to leave their own indelible marks on the Premier League.
Here is a breakdown of other Nigerians players’ appearances in the Premier League:
Joseph Yobo, Everton & Norwich City – 228 appearances
Victor Moses, Wigan Athletic, Crystal Palace, Liverpool, Stoke City & Chelsea – 220 appearances
Victor Anichebe, Everton, West Bromwich Albion & Sunderland – 204 appearances
Kelechi Iheanacho, Manchester City & Leicester City – 196 appearances
Wilfred Ndidi, Leicester City– 179 appearances
These players have made significant contributions to their respective teams and have left their mark on the Premier League.
