Alex Iwobi recently shared a pivotal moment from his early football career, revealing that he was once on the verge of joining Celtic. At just 16 years old, the Nigerian international had to make a crucial decision about his future while part of Arsenal’s academy system. With offers from multiple clubs, including Celtic and Crystal Palace, he ultimately chose to remain in North London by signing a scholarship deal with Arsenal.
Reflecting on that time, Iwobi admitted that the decision wasn’t easy. Speaking on The Fulham Fix podcast, the now 28-year-old recalled how he was faced with uncertainty about his career path. “When I turned 16 and had to leave school to focus on football full-time, I realized how serious things were getting. Arsenal gave me the choice to stay on as a scholar or explore other opportunities. I wasn’t sure what to do at that moment,” he said.
Despite interest from Celtic and a visit to Crystal Palace’s training ground, Iwobi leaned on his family’s guidance to make the final call. He revealed that his parents and sister had always supported him, especially during difficult moments when he was told he wasn’t good enough. “There were times when I was doubted, even when I played for England’s youth teams. At one point, I was the only one in my group who wasn’t offered a professional contract,” he shared.
Iwobi recalled how close he was to making the move to Scotland, saying, “I was meant to go to Celtic. I visited Crystal Palace as well, and there was another club I can’t remember. But after discussing it with my dad, we decided to stay at Arsenal. He reminded me that I had been doubted before and managed to prove people wrong.” That decision ultimately led him to play over 100 matches for Arsenal before moving on to Everton and later Fulham.
Though he never got the chance to wear the green and white of Celtic, Iwobi’s journey is a testament to perseverance and belief in oneself. Looking back, his choice to remain at Arsenal set the stage for a successful career in the Premier League, proving that even difficult decisions can lead to great achievements.