Why Vincent Enyeama To Arsenal Deals Went Off In 2006 And 2013
After taking over Super Eagles Goalkeeping duties from Ike Shorunmu in 2002. Vincent Enyeama worked his way to global prominence with consistent top class performances for Club and Country.
By 2006 , Vincent Enyeama was already on the wishlist of Veteran Arsenal manager Arsene Wenger after just one season at Isreali side Bnei Yehuda.
In an interview with ESPN Vincent Enyeama revealed how Arsenal made moves to sign him in 2006 and 2013 only for negotiations to break down on each occasion because Arsene Wenger only wanted him as a Back up.
The 37 year old said “For me, I was at the stage where I preferred playing even if it was for one of the smallest teams, that is what the agents that were involved told me. Arsene wanted me but he was not so sure because of my height and things like that.
“People have their choices and I respect their choices.”
In 2006, Arsene Wenger wanted Enyeama as cover for German Veteran Jens Lehmann but the Nigerian shot stopper who was in his early years In Europe preferred to remain a regular at Bnei Yehuda with whom he laid the foundation for his European journey .
Seven year later in 2013, Arsenal returned with another offer . This time the Nigerian shot stopper was enjoying his best years in the game. Winning the African Cup of Nations with Nigeria plus a consistent place in the Lille setup in the French Ligue one.
Again Arsene Wenger could not offer assurances Vincent Enyeama was going to displace then first choice Wojech Scezeny . Money was still not a problem , the Nigerian International wanted to play and Arsenal wasn’t going to give assurances of that. Deal Off.
Maybe a move to Arsenal in 2006 could have brought more fame to the now retired Vincent Enyeama or spelt doom for his Career with Arsene Wenger a fan who was in love with tall Goalkeepers .
