How I overcame harsh criticism at Arsenal – Alex Iwobi
Hale End Academy product Alex Iwobi has revealed what helped him overcome harsh criticisms during his early years at Arsenal FC.
The Everton Midfielder made this disclosure in a Premier League Productions programme: ‘The Art of the Mind.’
The show focused on how footballers are affected by mental health issues and the importance of psychology to a footballer’s daily life.
On the show, Former Brighton striker, Glenn Murray was joined by Brentford FC Sport Psychogist Dr. Michael Caulfield, as they spoke on about why football clubs should pay close attention to the mental health of their players.
Nigerian Midfielder Alex Iwobi, David de Gea (Manchester United), Patrick Bamford (Leeds United), Granit Xhaka (Arsenal) spoke to Premier League Production crew on the challenges they faced at some stages of their careers in the league.
Iwobi said of the criticism he faced at Arsenal FC “When I played for Arsenal, a lot of people questioned my abilities. The criticisms were just too much.
“But I had my family who stood behind me. My dad kept telling me that I am at such a big club for a reason and I should keep working hard. He was instrumental in me overcoming such harsh feedbacks.
“I owe my family a lot in this regard. These days, I just go out there and try and put in my best. I accepted the fact that there would always be critics,” Iwobi stated.
In 2019, Iwobi decided to leave the Gunners as Everton paid £35 million to secure his services.
At Everton, Iwobi endured a slow start before hitting top form under recently sacked Toffees manager Frank Lampard.
Spanish goalkepeer De Gea spoke on his reaction to goalkeeping mistakes, Leeds United striker Bamford highlighted how depression set in following his long layoff due to injury while Granit Xhaka revealed he almost left English Premier League title chasing Arsenal after the fans turned on him after a game against Crystal Palace.
