Alex Iwobi reveals why he quit Arsenal: 'I had to shake off youngster tag'

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Alex Iwobi has revealed he left Arsenal to shake off his tag of being a youngster and to make a name for himself at Everton.

Iwobi had been with Arsenal for 15 years after joining the club’s academy when he was eight, but he was sold to Everton last week on transfer deadline day.

The Toffees wrapped up a deal worth up to to £40million for the 23-year-old, who has only just returned to training after competing at the African Cup of Nations with Nigeria this summer.

Given Iwobi’s close ties to Arsenal his departure came as a surprise to some, but the forward has explained why he made the late move.

“The offer was too attractive for me to turn down,” said Iwobi.

“The manager was telling me: ‘There is a spot for you, we will take care of you’. Basically, all the things you want to hear as a player.

“He has given me the confidence I will do well. I am ready for a new challenge and chapter in my life.

“I always had that youngster tag at Arsenal, so hopefully with this move I am able to make a name for myself in the Premier League and create history with Everton.

“Hopefully I will be able to take on a bit more responsibility and add something to the team as well.”

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Iwobi has already seen how Everton boss Marco Silva has developed fellow forward Richarlison, who scored 13 Premier League goals last season.

And he is hoping Silva can have a similar impact on his career now he has made the move to Goodison Park.

“The manager has worked with Richarlison for a long while and made a name for him,” Iwobi told EvertonTV.

Deadline day mover: Alex Iwobi said he had to leave Arsenal to shed his status as a youngster 
EPA

“Hopefully he can do the same for, not just me, but Moise Kean and a few others that came as well.

“It is exciting times for Everton. I was able to look at the transfers and players they have brought in, there’s some great talent.”

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