Fulham midfielder Alex Iwobi has added a new role to his football career after taking charge of Baller League team Project 17.
The 30-year-old Nigeria international has started all five of Fulham’s league matches this season and remains an important part of the Premier League club’s squad. Away from his playing career, however, Iwobi has continued to explore interests beyond traditional football. His new involvement with Project 17 will see him take on managerial responsibilities in the indoor football competition.
Iwobi joins a growing list of prominent football figures involved with Baller League, which is led by YouTube personality KSI. Other well-known names on the league’s touchlines include Micah Richards, Daniel Sturridge, Chloe Kelly, Ian Wright and Jens Lehmann.
The Fulham midfielder had previously expressed an interest in becoming involved with the competition and has often spoken about his desire to explore different areas outside playing football.
“I’m not just a footballer, I like to express myself in many different ways, whether that’s music, fashion, charity. Anything really,” Iwobi said.
He added that football remained his main profession but explained that street football and small-sided games were also important parts of his identity.
“If I can get involved in Baller League, all my boys know, the team knows, Project 17 knows that I’ll be down,” he said.
Iwobi also offered an early glimpse into the type of manager he hopes to become, describing his approach as relaxed, passionate and entertaining.
“Alex Iwobi the manager, he’s probably going to be the same as a player. Very chilled, very entertaining, very passionate. Wants his team to win,” he said.
The midfielder said he wants his players to enjoy the game while embracing difficult moments and challenges.
“Baller League is entertaining. I like small-sided games. Even when I’m training, that’s probably one of the most exciting things I look forward to,” he added.
Iwobi’s connection with small-sided football dates back to his childhood, when he played street football and games in cages. He said the format remains something he enjoys, sometimes even more than traditional matches.
