A Nigeria star has now reportedly made a decision on his international future after being subjected to a barrage of abuse on social media following the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations final.
The Super Eagles had to settle for a runners-up finish at the latest AFCON after losing the decider 2-1 to hosts Ivory Coast.
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The result was met with widespread disappointment among Nigerian fans, with midfielder Alex Iwobi becoming a target of online bullying following his performance in the match.
Although he was substituted in the 79th minute when the score was still 1-1, the Fulham star seemingly became a scapegoat, despite the Elephants scoring the winner two minutes after he was brought off the pitch.
Several of Iwobi's have since condemned the abuse, including veteran winger and captain Ahmed Musa, who wrote on X: "Cyber-bullying is not just a violation of decency but also a serious crime. It's hypocritical to claim that football unites us while engaging in such behaviour. Losing a game is undoubtedly tough, but targeting a single player for the team's shortcomings is unfair and unjust. We win as a team, and we lose as a team. Alex gave his all on the field, just like every member of our squad."
The social media attacks on the former Arsenal star have led to speculation that he could be considering early retirement from international football.
However, it is now reported that the 27-year-old has no plans to quit Nigeria.
According to The Guardian journalist Osasu Obayiuwana, a source close to Iwobi and the national team has informed him of the player's decision to carry on representing the Super Eagles despite the abuse he has received.
Per Obayiuwana on X, the source told him: "Alex is totally unaffected by all the noise that has been making the rounds. He has no plans to quit the Eagles, as he loves playing for his country.
"He cannot be hounded out by the opinions of people whose opinions don't matter. Mental strength is key in this business and Alex wouldn't be playing at this level for over nine years if he was weak.
"He is now a veteran of the game and doesn't allow such negativity to get to him.
"There will always be haters and trolls, but the majority of Nigerians love him and appreciate his talent and what he has achieved."
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