There is a new star on the block at Arsenal and, this time, it is not an Englishman or a German or a Chilean either. Alex Iwobi has turned up big at the Emirates, and at the away grounds, and he seems to be the real deal for Arsenal.
The Gunners have always had an eye out for young talent and Iwobi has come out to form the famed Arsenal youth system that has brought in many players from across the world. Iwobi got his chance in the Champions League tie against Barcelona at the Nou Camp and even though Arsenal lost that game, the young Nigerian was one of the few players who actually was praised for his performance.
The Nigerian is not an unknown talent, though, he is related to Jay-Jay Okacha who was absolutely brilliant during his time with Bolton and the youngster does have some of his famous relative’s traits.
Okacha might not have been known for his speed but Iwobi has bags of that and that was exactly what he showed at the Nou Camp then at Goodison where he scored his first goal for the Gunners and now even scored at home against Watford.
There have been calls for some fresh faces to come into the Arsenal team and that has been achieved but with the season almost gone and with Arsenal having nothing to play for, it might have come a little too late.
The Gunners do have a lot of options in the attacking third with Alexis Sanchez, Mesut Ozil, Theo Walcott and Joel Campbell, even Aaron Ramsey can play out in the wings and with so much talent on board what are the real chances of Iwobi getting the chances in the first team next season?
There has been a lot of talk about Arsene Wenger’s future at Arsenal and his role at the club next season could also decide the fate of many young players in the team. Wenger has always been someone who believes in the youth policy but there have been questions about him giving enough opportunities to players.
Many youngsters seem ready for the big time at Arsenal but often move away at the lack of playing time but Wenger knows what is the right time and the wrong time for a youngster to play and this exactly what he has done with Iwobi as well.
Arsene knew Iwobi was ready to show his ability on the big stage and that the 19-year-old could be a good squad player for the time being, especially due to the injuries and suspension of players. Iwobi though has proved that not only can he be a good player but a starter for the Gunners.
His direct running and pace troubled the Barcelona defence and well even the Everton defence and with him scoring goals in his last two Premier League games, Iwobi seems destined for big things but Wenger must play him.
Arsene didn’t do the best thing for Joel Campbell when he was ready to step up for the Arsenal team but he was sent out on loan until he got to prove his ability this season and since Iwobi has already done the damage this season in a good way for the Gunners, his future under Wenger should be secure, even if the French manager is at the club next season or not.