Iwobi lands in Turkey for Super Eagles friendly as family speaks on alleged knife attack

Super Eagles playmaker Alex Iwobi has arrived in Antalya, Turkey, as Nigeria begin preparations for their upcoming international friendlies against Iran and Jordan, Afrik-Foot reports.

The Fulham midfielder is among the first group of players to report to the Super Eagles camp, a pointer to his commitment to the national team even at a busy stage of the club season. According to a team official, Iwobi was one of the earliest to check in.

“Alex is in camp, he’s one of the first three players to have arrived,” the official said.

More players have since joined him at the team’s base in Antalya, including Fisayo Dele-Bashiru, Paul Onuachu, Moses Simon, Semi Ajayi and Bright Osayi-Samuel, among others. Samuel Chukwueze and Maduka Okoye were also confirmed as part of the squad already settled at the Bellis Deluxe Hotel.

Nigeria will face Iran on March 27 before taking on Jordan four days later. Both matches are seen as important tests for the Super Eagles, especially as the team looks to rebuild after missing out on qualification for the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

Iwobi’s presence is a major boost. Over the past decade, he has grown into one of Nigeria’s most reliable and creative players. From featuring at the 2018 World Cup to helping the team win bronze medals at the 2019 and 2025 Africa Cup of Nations, the midfielder has remained a key figure in the squad.

At club level, he has also taken his game to a new level, becoming a central player for Fulham and one of their main creative outlets. This week, Alex Iwobi was recognised by the Football Black List for his impact even off the pitch.

Alex Iwobi: Knife attack claims dismissed

While Iwobi’s arrival in camp is good news for Nigeria, it comes after days of worrying reports about an alleged attack on his home in London.

Several outlets had claimed that the midfielder was the victim of a burglary involving knife-wielding attackers, with reports suggesting he lost valuables worth up to £200,000.

However, those claims have now been strongly denied.

The same team official confirmed that Iwobi himself had dismissed the story.

“As per the burglary story, he said nothing like that happened. He debunked it as fake news.”

Iwobi’s father, Chuka Iwobi, also spoke out to shut down the rumours in clear terms after being contacted by journalist Colin Udoh.

“Alex is fine and there was absolutely no attempt to burgle his house. He left for Turkey this morning in preparation for the friendlies. It’s so annoying that a person can actually spread such falsehood just for a few clicks. I’ve been inundated by calls and enquiries from well wishers and have spent unnecessary time explaining that this is a made up story.”

The firm response from both the player’s camp and his family appears to have put an end to the speculation, with focus now shifting fully to football. With Nigeria facing two World Cup-bound teams in Iran and Jordan, the friendlies offer a chance to test the squad’s strength and build momentum for future competitions.

And with one of their most experienced players already on the ground, the Super Eagles have made a steady start to life in Antalya.