Even years after retiring, Nwankwo Kanu’s skill still amazes those who played with or against him, SportsRation reports.
The Nigerian legend, known for his smooth style and clever tricks, continues to earn respect and admiration from anyone who saw him play.
Pennant remembers Kanu’s magic at Arsenal
Former Arsenal winger Jermaine Pennant recently praised Kanu on the Beast Mode On podcast, hosted by Adebayo Akinfenwa.
Looking back on their time together at Arsenal, Pennant laughed as he remembered how unbelievable Kanu’s control of the ball was.
“We used to check his boots sometimes and think, ‘Has he got Velcro on them?’” Pennant said. “I’ve never seen anyone move the ball like that. It was mad… you know his famous flick over his head? You can see it coming, but you still can’t stop it.”
Although Kanu wasn’t the quickest player, his vision, creativity, and smooth touch made him one of the most unpredictable and entertaining forwards in Premier League history.
Kanu’s lasting legacy
Kanu played for Arsenal from 1999 to 2004, a period fans still remember fondly.
Signed by Arsène Wenger from Inter Milan, he scored 44 goals in 198 games for the Gunners, including a memorable hat-trick against Chelsea at Stamford Bridge that made him a fan favourite.
His calmness and talent helped Arsenal win two Premier League titles and two FA Cups, and he was part of the famous “Invincibles” team.
Before joining Arsenal, Kanu had already achieved plenty — he won an Olympic gold medal with Nigeria and lifted the UEFA Champions League with Ajax.
Away from football, Kanu is still admired across Africa for his charity work through the Kanu Heart Foundation, which has helped save many lives.