Kanu Nwankwo reflects on how 2004 AFCON participation affected his game time at Arsenal

Former Super Eagles forward, Kanu Nwankwo, recently shared insights into how his participation in the 2004 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) impacted his game time during Arsenal’s historic Premier League invincible season.

The revelation highlights the challenges faced by the legendary Nigerian striker during a crucial period in his career.

Kanu’s call-up to represent Nigeria at the AFCON coincided with a time when he was already struggling to secure a spot in Arsene Wenger’s Arsenal side.

Having started just three games in the campaign, the AFCON invitation came at an inconvenient moment for the skilled forward.

The success of the Nigerian team in advancing to the latter stages of the competition meant that Kanu couldn’t immediately return to contend for a place in the historic Arsenal squad.

The Gunners, went on to achieve the remarkable feat of being champions and going unbeaten throughout the Premier League season.

In a recent interview with Arsenal’s official website, Kanu who is now chairman of Nigeria Premier Football League club, Enyimba FC candidly acknowledged the impact of representing Nigeria at AFCON on his game time with Arsenal.

He revealed the difficulties of regaining a spot in the team, especially when the squad boasted numerous talented players.

“It was difficult because in a squad of so many good players, when you lose your place, it’s hard to get it back,” Kanu stated. The highly competitive nature of the Arsenal squad meant that even with Nigeria’s success at AFCON, returning to a starting role was a challenging proposition.

Kanu’s return saw him make only one appearance in the Premier League during that season.

Although he contributed four goals in ten games in the English top flight, it marked the conclusion of his five-year tenure with the North London side.

Despite the challenges faced during that period, Kanu left Arsenal as a legend, having clinched two Premier League titles, two FA Cups, and one Charity Shield (now known as the Community Shield) during his illustrious stint with the club.

His resilience and contributions to the team remain an integral part of Arsenal’s rich history.

Kanu’s experience mirrors concerns from African players and clubs over the winter scheduling of the cup of nations.