Super Eagles midfielder Alex Iwobi has once again hailed his uncle, Nigerian football legend Jay-Jay Okocha, as the greatest footballer of all time.
Iwobi, who currently plays for Fulham, has never hidden his admiration for Okocha, whose dazzling dribbling and creativity left a lasting mark on African and European football.
Speaking on the Is This Seat Taken podcast, Iwobi expressed his deep respect for his uncle, emphasizing Okocha’s influence both on and off the pitch.
“In sports? Forever my uncle, Jay-Jay Okocha. I have to shout him out all the time—on and off the field,” Iwobi said.
Okocha, renowned for his exceptional dribbling and playmaking, is widely regarded as one of Africa’s greatest footballers. His career included unforgettable stints with Nigeria’s Super Eagles, Paris Saint-Germain, and Bolton Wanderers.
READ MORE: Kpaboro Arierhri explains why he Chose Lillestrøm SK over offers from top European clubs
Okocha had 73 caps for the Nigeria national team between 1993 and 2006, scoring 14 goals, and was a member of three FIFA World Cup squads and five AFCON team (1994,2000,2002, 2004 and 2006)
Jay Jay playing for the Super Eagles during the 1994 FIFA World Cup.
He won the AFCON title in 1994 and helped the dream team to Olympic gold medal in 1996.
CLICK HERE TO JOIN THE ATHLETIC NG WHATSAPP CHANNEL NOW!
Having grown up watching Okocha, Iwobi credits him as a major influence on his playing style and professional attitude.
“I used to watch his matches and training sessions. He’s the one who really taught me how to express myself,” Iwobi shared.
“And off the pitch, he’s always advising me—how to be professional, manage my money, stay humble, and remain grounded. He will always be my idol,” the former Arsenal star added.
Iwobi started his professional career at Arsenal before moving to Everton in 2019. In 2023, he joined Fulham, where he continues to impress under manager Marco Silva.
Since making his international debut in 2015, Iwobi has earned over 80 caps and scored 10 goals for Nigeria, cementing his role as a key player for the Super Eagles.
