Fulham midfielder Alex Iwobi has taken on a new role as a manager in the Baller League while continuing his playing career at Craven Cottage. The 30-year-old is leading a team called Project 17 in the indoor football competition, which is fronted by YouTube personality KSI.
Iwobi described his approach to management as focused on enjoyment. "I’m not just a footballer, I like to express myself in many different ways, whether that’s music, fashion, charity. Anything really," he said. He added that his managerial style is 'entertaining', 'chilled', and 'passionate'.
High-profile league
The Baller League features several other former and current football stars in managerial positions. Iwobi's peers include Micah Richards, Daniel Sturridge, Chloe Kelly, Ian Wright, and Jens Lehmann. His first assignment is a match against a team managed by Richards. The league, which began in January, is a six-a-side indoor format where managers are actively involved in team selection and tactics from the sidelines.
This venture comes at a time when his primary focus, Fulham, is in a difficult period. The Cottagers are 19th in the Premier League, having taken just two points from their opening five matches. Their recent form reads two draws and three defeats, leaving them 13 points adrift of leaders Manchester City. The club's precarious position adds a layer of contrast to Iwobi's off-field project.
Established Premier League figure
Iwobi has been a constant presence in Fulham's struggling side this season, starting all five of those league games. Since joining from Everton for a fee reported to be around £20 million in 2023, he has made 115 appearances for the club. His career began at Arsenal, where he played 149 times and scored 15 goals, before a £34 million move to Everton in 2019.
Beyond football, the Nigeria international, who has over 100 caps, is known for his interests in music and fashion. He has previously expressed that he enjoys street football and training sessions more than the pressure of competitive matches. His new role allows him to channel that passion into a different format. He sees the Baller League as a platform that blends football with entertainment, aligning with his personal interests.
Fulham will be hoping their experienced midfielder can translate some of his off-field leadership to help improve results on it. The club's immediate concern is arresting their slide, with their next chance coming against Ipswich. For a detailed look at the squad he returns to, visit our squad list. Iwobi's first Baller League match is set to take place this week.
More detail at talkSPORT
