Former Manchester United manager Sir Alex Ferguson has revealed he has been impressed by Alexi Iwobi this season with the youngster having forced his way into the Arsenal first-team.
The 20-year-old has already made 11 appearances for the Gunners in all competitions this season and has also burst onto the international scene, scoring on his full senior Nigeria debut earlier this month.
Ferguson also feels Arsenal are capable of a title challenge this season and believes the Gunners are more aggressive than in previous years.
“It’s harder to predict than it was for many years,” the Scot told Kicker with regards the Premier League title reace.
“I think there’s five potential candidates: Manchester City as favourites, Tottenham and Liverpool, but also Man United are still there if we get some consistency soon.
“Even when you are trailing by six, eight points, it’s still possible to catch one or two teams.
“The rivalry and the experience of Guardiola and Mourinho makes for an exciting competition. And you shouldn’t forget Arsenal. The team is more sturdy. They’ve got better and more aggressive. I’m impressed with the young boy Alex Iwobi.”
The Scot also discussed Arsenal’s chances of success in the Champions League, with the club currently top of Group A, level on points with PSG after three games played.
Ferguson says Arsenal are “capable of a deep run” this season as they aim to improve on recent campaigns where they have failed to progress further than the round of 16.
The 74-year-old’s comments on Iwobi are high praise indeed particularly given Sir Alex’s track record of bringing through youngsters during his trophy-laden years at Old Trafford.