Everton manager Sean Dyche has admitted he was reluctant to part ways with Alex Iwobi, as the Nigerian winger prepares for his return to Goodison Park with Fulham in their upcoming Premier League encounter, according to Soccernet.ng.
Iwobi joined Everton from Arsenal in 2019 for a reported £28 million and, over four years, transformed from a struggling arrival into a key player in the club’s fight for Premier League survival.
His impact was most significant during the 2021-22 and 2022-23 seasons, where his versatility and creativity were crucial. In his final season with the Toffees, Iwobi provided eight assists and was named the Players’ Player of the Season.
Despite his importance to the squad, Iwobi departed for Fulham in September 2023, with Everton receiving £22 million for the winger, who was in the last year of his contract.
Reflecting on the transfer, Dyche said, “It was a very good deal for the club. I thought he was an excellent servant certainly in my time here, enjoyed having him around the place.
“He was a joy to work with, a very good player in my opinion. Not one I wanted to lose but needs must at that time. It was a good fee for a good player.”
Iwobi has continued to impress at Fulham, scoring seven goals and providing three assists across 43 appearances for the London side. This season, he has already made his mark, recording a goal and an assist in eight league matches as Fulham enjoy a solid start.
The Cottagers currently sit 10th in the Premier League table with 11 points from their opening eight fixtures. Iwobi’s return to Merseyside adds an extra layer of intrigue, as the winger faces his former club under the watchful eye of Dyche.