Iwobi’s Fulham landmark places him among Premier League’s elite

Alex Iwobi became only the fifth player in Premier League history to make at least 100 appearances for three different clubs after reaching the milestone for Fulham in their 3-2 defeat by Crystal Palace at Craven Cottage on Saturday.

The Fulham midfielder, who represents Nigeria at international level, had already passed the century mark with both Arsenal and Everton before completing the achievement with the west London club.

Iwobi made 100 Premier League appearances for Arsenal, having progressed through the club’s academy, and went on to feature 123 times in the competition for Everton. His appearance against Crystal Palace took his total for Fulham to 100.

Only four players had previously reached that landmark for three separate Premier League clubs: Gary Speed, Rory Delap, Gareth Barry and James Milner.

That list means Iwobi is now part of a select group whose careers have included at least a century of league appearances with three different teams. The achievement adds another notable milestone to the 30-year-old’s career in England’s top flight.

Iwobi started his senior Premier League career with Arsenal after coming through the club’s youth system. He later moved to Everton in 2019, where he accumulated 123 league appearances before joining Fulham in 2023.

Since moving to Craven Cottage, Iwobi has established himself as an important member of Fulham’s first-team squad. His latest appearance came in a closely contested match against Crystal Palace, although Fulham ultimately finished on the losing side.

The Nigeria international’s career has therefore included significant spells at three Premier League clubs. His progression from the Arsenal academy to a regular first-team role at Fulham has now been marked by a rare statistical achievement.

Iwobi could also receive further recognition from Fulham this season after being nominated, alongside fellow Nigeria international Samuel Chukwueze, for the club’s Goal of the Season award.

His 100th appearance for Fulham was reached against Crystal Palace, but the match ended in disappointment for Marco Silva’s side as they were beaten 3-2 at home. Nevertheless, the fixture ensured Iwobi’s name was added to an exclusive section of Premier League history.

The former Arsenal and Everton player is now the fifth footballer to record 100 Premier League appearances for three different clubs, following Speed, Delap, Barry and Milner. It represents the latest significant landmark in a top-flight career that began in north London and has since taken him to Everton and Fulham.