Exclusive: Alex Iwobi Talks Arsenal Pre-Season Plans, 5-a-Side and Paul Pogba

It was a breakthrough season for Alex Iwobi last term as the 20-year-old attacking midfielder used his vision, skill and technique to force his way into Arsene Wenger’s Arsenal side.

After a short summer break, the Nigeria international is now focused on making sure he remains part of the plans in north London, and he spoke exclusively to Bleacher Report about how he can maintain the hype:

Bleacher Report: What have you been up to this summer?

Alex Iwobi: “I went on holiday to Marbella with some friends just to take time to clear my mind because it was a hectic season—but I have been training as well to keep moving forward.”I went on some runs with my friends on holiday, and since I got back we have been playing 5-a-side at Powerleague. It’s a good standard because a lot of us are professional.”We also have a schedule to follow from the club, so I try to stick to that and also do a few bits that I think will help me.”

BR: How has pre-season been since you joined up with the club?

AI: “It’s been hard. In the morning we tend to do a lot of circuit training and some running with and without the ball.”We also do possession drills which can be hard work—and then we will go into the gym to work on upper- or lower-body strength. Later on we might get the ball out for another session.”

BR: That sounds tiring.

AI: “It is. There is one exercise that we have been doing that is so hard. They call them star runs.The cones are laid out in the shape of a star, and then you have to run against the clock. …

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