Former Arsenal star Alex Iwobi has opened up about the unexpected circumstances that led to his departure from the North London club in 2019, describing the situation as "mad" while insisting he has no regrets about the move.

The Nigerian international revealed he was sold to help Arsenal balance their books following the £72 million acquisition of Nicolas Pepe, a club-record signing at the time.

Speaking in an interview with Inside Scoop, Iwobi recounted how he was on holiday with his family when his agent informed him about Everton's interest.

"It's nice to know they [Everton] want me, what do you think?" Iwobi recalled asking his agent. "I [said], I don't know, I'm 50/50, then my agent said, 'Alex, Arsenal have already handed in the medical', they [Arsenal] might want you gone because they need to sell someone."

The midfielder expressed his surprise at the development, saying: "It was mad, I was like, Arsenal want to let go of me, I guess it's time for a new challenge."

Iwobi added that then-Everton manager Marco Silva played a crucial role in convincing him to join the Merseyside club by making certain promises about his role in the team.

A product of Arsenal's renowned academy, Iwobi made 149 appearances for the Gunners' senior team before his departure, contributing 15 goals and providing 23 assists during his time at the Emirates Stadium.

The 29-year-old midfielder has since established himself as a versatile player in the Premier League, having spent several seasons with Everton before continuing his career elsewhere.