Veteran actor, Ejike Asiegbu, talks about his love for Arsenal and his dream to see the Gunners end their wait for their first title since 2004, in this interview with JOHNNY EDWARD
Were you involved in sports while growing up?
Yes, I played football during my school days, captaining my teams in both primary and secondary schools. It was a significant part of my upbringing.
As a veteran actor, do you still engage in sports during your leisure time?
I prioritise staying active with walks and swimming to maintain my health and fitness, although I no longer play football at my age.
Were your parents in support of your involvement in sports, particularly football?
They were not because they wanted me and my siblings to be focused on academics. So, I eventually stopped playing at a young age to pursue education.
How did you move into acting?
My acting career started out from the theatre groups while I attended the University of Port Harcourt and later at the Institute of Management Technology, Enugu. That was the platform that helped my career as an actor.
Would you support your children if they chose football?
Absolutely. My twins are passionate about football, and I will encourage them to pursue their interests in football alongside education.
Which football team do you support?
I support Enyimba of Aba, Enugu Rangers and the Super Eagles.
In the Premier League, I love Arsenal. And I hope they eventually win the title this season. They have been very impressive and I hope they beat Manchester City to the title because it’s 20 years since we last won the league.
How confident are you on Arsenal winning the EPL title?
Very confident. Currently Arsenal lead the EPL table with one point, but Manchester City have a game in hand. Should they win their remaining three games, they will be champions but who says City can’t drop points in those games. I strongly believe Arsenal will win the title. They deserve to be champions. They are the best team in England considering how they have played this season. They are the best attacking side and also in terms of defending they hold sway. Didn’t you see how they thrashed Chelsea?
Who is your favourite player at the club?
The entire team has been impressive with standout players like Bukayo Saka, Kai Harvertz, Martin Odegaard and Declan Rice, who brings a lot of energy and skill to the team. They have been the driving force of the team.
The Nigerian Football Federation recently appointed Finidi George as the new Super Eagles coach, what’s your take on his appointment?
It’s the right decision to appoint an indigenous coach to lead the team. I hope he brings good luck and stability to the team.
His first games comes up next month against South Africa and Benin Republic in the 2026 World Cup qualifiers. How do you think he must approach those games?
Winning those games will tell us if we will be playing at the next World Cup. He must use players who are hungry to make the team great again. Players with big heart, skill and competence will help the team.
Who is your favourite Nigerian footballer?
Currently, Victor Osimhen has been the biggest star and shinning light in the team and I hope he continues to shine for the team. There is also Victor Boniface and Alex Iwobi, who are great players. I also love Ademola Lookman. He was outstanding at the last AFCON tournament and he’s doing very well with Atalanta.
