Former Everton midfielder Alex Iwobi has now admitted it was a difficult decision to leave the club this summer ahead of a move to Fulham.
Iwobi spoke to The Athletic in a lengthy interview in which he explained the reasons for his departure.
The midfielder admitted that he was looking forward to a new challenge, but also said that there were factors that he was not authorized to talk about.
Of his decision, Iwobi said: “It wasn’t an easy decision [to leave].“I enjoyed my time there. Especially the last few years. I had the feeling that they [the Everton fans] liked me a lot.
“At the same time, I felt I needed a new challenge and Fulham gives me the platform to express myself and do that.”Fulham’s Iwobi then mentioned Everton factors which he could not discuss. He added:
“There have been a lot of conversations behind closed doors – there are things I’m not allowed to say – but I feel it was my decision and the club’s, and the best solution was to leave.”I hope they are well, I have a lot of respect for them and I left on good terms.”
Iwobi suggests Everton were keen for him to move to Fulham Naturally, Fulham parted with £22 million for Iwobi on deadline day.
Fulham’s Marco Silva wanted a reunion with Iwobi, who he worked with briefly at Everton.
Iwobi has had a somewhat inconsistent start to the season at both clubs due to a persistent hamstring problem.
But after 90 minutes against Norwich in the EFL Cup last week, Iwobi could hope to make his first league start for Fulham tonight.
The Cottagers host rivals Chelsea and can hope to get another result against their neighbours, who have had another difficult year.
It would be too early to say that Everton will miss Iwobi, but some fans may still be surprised by the decision to sell to Fulham.
