Former Super Eagles forward Nwankwo Kanu disclosed that participating in the 2004 Africa Cup of Nations affected his playing time at Arsenal in the 2003/04 season, as reported by IWITNESSLIVE Sports.
Joining Arsenal in the middle of the 1998/99 season, Kanu quickly became a pivotal player, contributing significantly to the club’s successes.
However, his involvement in the 2004 AFCON finals in Tunisia during January and February impacted the latter part of his Arsenal season.
Despite Nigeria reaching the semi-final and securing the bronze medal, Kanu’s Arsenal season saw notable changes due to his international commitments.
Upon his return to England, Kanu struggled for game time as Arsenal completed the historic Premier League invincible season.
Kanu had played in nine league matches before representing Nigeria at AFCON, but only played one more match in the EPL for the rest of the season upon his return.
“It was difficult, because in a squad of so many good players, when you lose your place, it’s hard to get it back,” Kanu said on the club’s official website, arsenal.com.
“Obviously Arsenal did very well while I was away, so it was hard for me to get into the team again after going away.
“Sometimes it worked the other way, when you go away sometimes, they need you back in the team or need to change things, but this season they didn’t need to change anything.”
Kanu concluded his Gunners career with 44 goals from 198 appearances in all competitions.
