Alex Iwobi struggled with second season syndrome last year, so how do Arsenal ensure his progress doesn’t stall as he falls down the pecking order?
Conclusion
This is undoubtedly an important season for Iwobi.
Although he made three Champions League appearances alongside his 18 starts in the Premier League last season, one would suspect that the Europa League would hold more opportunities for game-time this year.
Additionally, with the uncertainty now surrounding two of Arsenal’s key men in his formation, I believe Wenger would be reluctant to lose a reliable player in the same position.
If Arsenal were currently in a better state of affairs with player contracts and Champions League football, then this may have been an ideal opportunity to allow Iwobi to further his footballing education – either in the Premier League or on foreign shores.
However, with the quantity of fixtures Arsene will have to navigate this season, it seems senseless to allow Iwobi to leave.
Despite the fans lamenting Iwobi’s inclusion last season, I don’t think it would surprise anyone to see him kick on this season.
He may not start as many games as he would like but Iwobi will be given plenty of opportunities to develop.
It’s key that he stays.