Premier League
Not Messi Or Ronaldo: Iwobi Crowns Arsenal Icon His GOAT
Fulham midfielder Alex Iwobi was asked to build his ideal footballer in an interview with Sky Sports, and in a surprise twist, chose neither Lionel Messi nor Cristiano Ronaldo as his Greatest of All Time (GOAT).
While building his dream player by selecting attributes from various stars, the Nigerian international acknowledged both Messi and Ronaldo for their exceptional qualities.
He picked Ronaldo for his finishing ability, saying: “Ronaldo. His finishing – the stats speak for itself.”
For left foot, he went with the Argentine icon: “Messi. The stats speak for itself.”
However, when it came to control, Iwobi made a revealing choice, naming former Arsenal teammate Santi Cazorla as his greatest of all time.
“My GOAT, Santi Cazorla,” he declared, underlining the Spaniard’s technical brilliance.
Cazorla, who joined Arsenal in 2012, was a fan favourite during his six-year stint, winning two FA Cups and a Community Shield, and making 180 appearances with 29 goals and 44 assists before leaving the club.
Iwobi also gave nods to his current Fulham teammates. For heading, he chose Brazilian striker Rodrigo Muniz, noting, “It’s like a shot when he heads the ball.”
Adama Traoré, known for his explosive power, featured twice in Iwobi’s dream lineup — for both speed and strength.
“Too strong and too fast!” Iwobi said.
Allnigeriasoccer.com
**Title:** Croatia confirm Slaven Bilic return as former West Ham boss replaces Zlatko Dalic **Meta Description:** Slaven Bilic has been appointed Croatia head coach for a second spell after Zlatko Dalic stepped down following the 2026 World Cup. **Slug:** croatia-confirm-slaven-bilic-return-head-coach **Alt Image Text:** Slaven Bilic during his unveiling as Croatia national team head coach — # Croatia confirm Slaven Bilic return as former West Ham boss replaces Zlatko Dalic Croatia have officially confirmed the return of Slaven Bilic as head coach, with the former West Ham United manager replacing Zlatko Dalic following the conclusion of the 2026 FIFA World Cup. Bilic returns to the national team after more than a decade away, ending a two-year absence from management as he begins a second spell in charge of his country. ## Bilic begins a second spell with Croatia The Croatian Football Federation (HNS) announced Bilic’s appointment after the Executive Committee unanimously approved the recommendation of federation president Marijan Kustic. Bilic previously managed Croatia between 2006 and 2012, guiding the national team through two European Championships before embarking on a successful club coaching career that included spells with West Ham United, West Bromwich Albion, Besiktas and Al-Ittihad. The federation believes his experience and deep understanding of Croatian football make him the ideal candidate to lead the next generation. ## Huge task replacing Zlatko Dalic Bilic succeeds one of the most successful managers in Croatia’s history. Dalic stepped down after the 2026 World Cup, bringing an end to a remarkable tenure that included a World Cup final, a World Cup semi-final and several memorable tournament campaigns. Federation president Marijan Kustic acknowledged the size of the challenge but expressed complete confidence in Bilic. > “I would like to once again thank Zlatko for the exceptional results he achieved during his tenure. It is not easy to follow in his footsteps, but we are convinced Slaven is the right person for this role.” Kustic added that Bilic’s international pedigree and extensive coaching experience were decisive factors behind the appointment. ## Bilic honoured to return Bilic described his return as the greatest honour of his coaching career and admitted he understands the expectations that come with leading one of international football’s most consistent tournament teams. > “I would like to thank President Kustic and the Federation’s leadership for the confidence they have shown in allowing me to lead the Croatian national team once again — the greatest honour for any Croatian coach.” The 57-year-old also praised the standards established under Dalic while insisting he is ready for the responsibility. > “I am fully aware of the high expectations that follow such a remarkable period under Zlatko Dalic, but anyone who takes charge of Croatia must be prepared for that because we are a football nation that lives and breathes its national team.” ## A new chapter begins Bilic now faces the task of building on Dalic’s legacy while preparing Croatia for the next international cycle. With a blend of experienced stars and emerging young talent at his disposal, Croatia will hope their returning manager can guide them to another successful era on the international stage.
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