Blackburn Rovers summer signing who looks up to Iwobi hints at picking Nigeria over England

Published: July 14, 2025

Championship side Blackburn Rovers recently confirmed the capture of Arsenal academy graduate Ryan Alebiosu, with the 23-year-old fullback putting pen to paper on a three-year deal, including an option for an additional twelve months.

The move sees Alebiosu return to English football after a two-year stint with Belgian outfit KV Kortrijk, having departed Arsenal in 2023 after more than a decade at the north London club.

A native of London, Alebiosu began his career as a right winger before transitioning into a fullback.

He remains eligible to represent both England and Nigeria at international level but his latest actions suggest a preference for the Super Eagles.

Alebiosu proudly wore the Nigerian flag at his Blackburn Rovers unveiling, symbolizing his cultural roots and possibly hinting at a desire to represent the Super Eagles.

Rovers noted that their third signing of the summer window is yet to represent a nation at any level, but is eligible to feature for both England and Nigeria.

However, his admiration for Nigeria and for Super Eagles midfielder Alex Iwobi in particular appears to tip the scales.

Alebiosu has previously cited Iwobi, a fellow product of Arsenal’s Hale End Academy, as a role model.

Speaking to Arsenal's official website seven years ago, he said: "I would say I’m a little similar in style to Alex Iwobi when he plays on the wing.

"I have admired and watched Alex play for years and also when he plays for Nigeria, which is where my parents are from."

Given that Alebiosu has not been capped by England at any level, he would not require a formal change of association to represent Nigeria, a possibility that now seems more likely than ever.

Ifeanyi Emmanuel

Photo Credit: rovers.co.uk

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