Iwobi regrets not starting, recalls UEL final goal highlight

Posted : 25 February 2025

Alex Iwobi has reflected on his remarkable goal in the 2019 UEFA Europa League final against Chelsea, considering it one of the standout moments of his career.

The Nigerian midfielder, who represented Arsenal at the time, expressed his disappointment at not being in the starting lineup but remained determined to make an impact when called upon.

"The match was played in Baku, which was a long journey for us," Iwobi shared during an interview on the Fulham Fix Podcast Episode 32.

"I believed I would start, but Unai Emery had other plans. I was slightly frustrated, but I told myself that if given a chance, I had to prove my worth."

Arsenal faced Chelsea at the Baku Olympic Stadium in Azerbaijan on May 29, 2019. After a goalless first half, Chelsea dominated the second half, with Olivier Giroud scoring in the 49th minute, followed by Pedro doubling the lead. Eden Hazard then extended Chelsea’s advantage to 3-0 from the penalty spot in the 65th minute.

Iwobi entered the match in the 66th minute and wasted no time making an impact. Just three minutes later, he connected with a loose ball outside the box and fired a powerful right-footed volley into the net, pulling one back for Arsenal. The goal briefly reignited hopes of a comeback.

"Although we lost, scoring in that final remains one of my best career memories," Iwobi admitted. "You never know what destiny holds, but I was glad to get a goal."

Chelsea, however, quickly dashed Arsenal’s hopes, with Hazard scoring again in the 72nd minute to seal a 4-1 victory. The defeat denied Arsenal a spot in the following season’s Champions League, marking a significant setback for the club.

Despite the result, Iwobi’s goal was historic, making him the first Nigerian to score in a major European club final. It was also his last goal for Arsenal, as he departed that summer for Everton in a deal worth approximately £35 million.

Since then, Iwobi has continued his career in the Premier League, spending four seasons at Everton before joining Fulham in 2023, where he has become a key player. His recollection of the Europa League final captures both the disappointment of not starting and the pride of making a lasting contribution on a grand stage.

Although Arsenal fell short that night, Iwobi’s goal remains a defining moment—one that showcased his skill, determination, and ability to make an impact when it mattered most.

Iwobi regrets not starting, recalls UEL final goal highlight

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