Midfielder Alex Iwobi has shared his reservations about Nigeria’s newly unveiled 2026 national team kit, revealing a personal preference for the previous design following its recent debut in international friendlies.
The new strip, released by sportswear giant Nike in late March, has generated widespread discussion among fans and players alike due to its bold aesthetic choices. The collection includes both home and away kits in vivid shades of green, marking a modern reinterpretation of the country’s traditional football colours.
Nigeria’s national team, the Super Eagles, have already worn the designs in recent matches played in Turkey. The team recorded a 2-1 victory over Iran before drawing 2-2 with Jordan, offering supporters an early look at the updated uniforms in competitive action.
The home kit features a light green base complemented by darker panel detailing, while the away version stands out with a white background decorated with bold, flame-like green patterns. The designs aim to blend contemporary styling with elements of Nigeria’s football identity, though reactions have been mixed.
Speaking ahead of the match against Iran on the Alexander Yaa Digg podcast, Iwobi gave his first impressions of the new collection, focusing particularly on the training gear. He described it as visually striking and somewhat unconventional compared to previous designs.
“The training kit is bright green, resembling highlighters with a pink stripe on the side. That’s the new kit for training,” he said.
His comments highlight the distinctive nature of the new range, which has drawn attention for its brightness and departure from more traditional styles.
Iwobi also reflected on the broader significance of the redesign, considering how kit changes can influence team identity and morale. While acknowledging the fresh look introduced by Nike, he suggested that his personal preference still lies with the older version.
“Personally, I think I prefer the old one, but we will see if this one can bring us luck in today’s match,” he added.
Kit launches often play a symbolic role in football, representing both heritage and evolution. For Nigeria, whose past jerseys have been widely celebrated for their creativity and cultural resonance, any new release tends to attract strong opinions.
The early performances of the Super Eagles in the new kit may contribute to how it is ultimately received. With a win and a draw already recorded, attention will likely turn to whether the design becomes associated with success on the pitch.
For now, Iwobi’s remarks reflect a cautious response — balancing appreciation for innovation with a sense of attachment to what came before.
