Arsenal legend Ian Wright has expressed disappointment and rejected the apology offered by former England footballer Eniola Aluko after she suggested that Wright’s influence could be limiting broadcasting opportunities for female pundits. Wright, who has been an advocate for women’s football and works as a pundit for both men’s and women’s games, made it clear that while he appreciated the public support he had received, he could not accept Aluko’s apology.
Aluko, during an interview on BBC Radio 4’s Woman’s Hour earlier this week, commented on the difficulties women face in breaking into football broadcasting. She specifically mentioned Wright, saying that his presence in the women’s football space could be preventing other female pundits from having the chance to work in the same role. The former Chelsea player explained that with limited opportunities for women in football, there is a need to create space for them to thrive.
The remarks caused a stir within the football community, especially given the long-standing relationship between Aluko and Wright, who have worked together as pundits in the past. Following backlash, Aluko issued an apology on Instagram, saying that her comments were intended to highlight the general lack of opportunities for women in the football industry and that she had mistakenly raised Wright’s name in the conversation. She further expressed admiration for Wright, calling him a “brilliant broadcaster and role model” whose support for the women’s game has been significant.
However, Wright, who has worked tirelessly to promote women’s football, expressed his disappointment in Aluko’s comments. The 61-year-old football legend stated that he could not accept the apology, though he highlighted that he did not wish to dwell on the issue any further. He remarked, “I’m very disappointed by what Eni has said. She knows how I have helped her and supported her publicly. I can’t accept it [the apology], but I also want to move on from it.”
Wright’s disappointment stems from his long-standing commitment to elevating women’s football. As a vocal advocate for the women’s game, he has regularly worked as a pundit for women’s football events, including the England women’s national team (Lionesses) matches. Despite the tension caused by Aluko’s remarks, Wright has continued to stress the importance of supporting women in football, particularly given the historical challenges the sport has faced.
The former England striker acknowledged that the women’s game still faces significant challenges, due to systemic issues that have persisted for decades. He pointed out that men have historically blocked the development of women’s football for over 50 years, which has resulted in the sport’s delayed progress. However, Wright remains optimistic that, with collective effort, these issues can be addressed. He further added, “We are the country that invented modern football, so we have a responsibility to lead the way in women’s football.”
Wright also thanked the public for their overwhelming support, stating that their messages had helped him stay focused on the bigger picture. He reiterated his commitment to giving back to the game that has given him so much throughout his career, and stressed that his dedication to the sport transcends gender. He stated, “It has never bothered me about who is playing the game, as long as they are playing the game. If you know my story, you know how much football means to me.”
