Arsenal manager, Unai Emery, has hailed Alex Iwobi as a great example after the Nigerian signed a new contract on Friday.
Iwobi, 22, was rewarded for his meteoric rise at the Emirates since joining a six-year-old.
The Super Eagles have progressed superbly through the ranks and the new coach is hoping the youngster can continue the rise.
“I’m very pleased Alex has signed a new contract with us,” the ex-Sevilla tactician told the club’s website.
“He is a great example of a player who can succeed from the academy through hard work and I look forward to working with him and our other talented young players in the squad.”
Since joining us for training sessions at the age of six, the Nigerian international has only ever had one dream – to play for Arsenal.
With a new long-term contract now signed, Iwobi’s focus is as firmly set on continuing his development and making everyone proud.
“It’s always been my childhood dream to represent Arsenal,” Iwobi told Arsenal Player. “To get an extended contract is an amazing feeling and I hope I’m doing the Arsenal family proud, as well as my family.
“The first kit that I had was Arsenal and long may I continue to represent them.
“I always realise that I have to be representing the team and giving 100 per cent at all times. It’s not just myself or my family I’m representing, I also represent the people and the younger generation as well.
“There’s always going to be pressure in football and it’s always amazing for young kids, especially at Hale End [where his shirt adorns the wall], to look up to me. So I’ll try and continue making them proud.”
