Iwobi Reveals Mikel’s New Leadership Role Ahead of AFCON 2019

Super Eagles midfielder Alex Iwobi has suggested that captain John Obi Mikel could play a deeper midfield role for Nigeria at the 2019 Africa Cup of Nations.

Coach Gernot Rohr has experimented with different formations during training and warm-up matches as he prepares his team for their opening game against Burundi.

In friendly matches against Zimbabwe and Senegal, Mikel operated in central midfield while Iwobi was given a more advanced role.

Iwobi said Mikel’s experience and leadership would be important to the team during the tournament.

“It’s great to have Mikel back, with so much experience and what he has done for the country and for Chelsea, especially to have him at the base of midfield,” Iwobi said.

He added that Mikel had been helping him adjust his game to the different demands of African football.

“He is always talking to me and trying to help me with my game because the conditions in Europe and Africa are different. He is always there to help me and guide me when I’m playing,” he said.

Iwobi also stressed that Nigeria would not depend on individual stars at the tournament.

According to him, the Super Eagles’ strength lies in their ability to attack and defend collectively.

“Even though we have stars, we work hard as a team. We don’t rely on one person,” he said.

Iwobi added that teamwork had been one of the main reasons behind Nigeria’s recent performances and would remain important as the Super Eagles chase success at AFCON 2019.