Eni Aluko Calls Out Ian Wright: 'Make Room For Women In Women's Football'

Eni Aluko has sparked a passionate debate in the world of sports punditry, accusing Arsenal legend Ian Wright of unintentionally blocking opportunities for female broadcasters in women’s football.

The 38-year-old former England and Chelsea forward, who has long been a vocal advocate for gender equality in sports, made the bold statement during an appearance on BBC Radio 4’s Woman’s Hour.

“I’ve worked with Ian for a long time. He’s a brilliant broadcaster, no doubt,” Aluko began. “But I think he needs to be aware of how much space he’s occupying in the women’s game. Opportunities are still limited.”

Aluko emphasized that, unlike men’s football, where the broadcasting field is broader and more established, women’s football is still developing. “If there were equal opportunities in the men’s game for broadcasters and coaches, it would be a free-for-all,” she said. “But that’s not the case. I couldn’t dominate men’s football coverage the way Ian, for example, has in the women’s game.”

When asked if she believed Wright’s role in women’s football coverage was inappropriate, Aluko clarified, “I’m not saying it’s wrong. But we have to be conscious of the space we’re taking up. Women shouldn’t be blocked from accessing broadcasting roles in a sport that’s about them.”

She added, “Women’s football is still growing. There are only so many seats at the table. Men need to be aware they’re stepping into a space that women have fought hard to build. It’s about supporting and making room for others.”

Ian Wright, 61, has been a prominent voice in women's football in recent years. He co-launched a podcast with former England captain Steph Houghton and regularly discusses the women’s game alongside BBC presenter Kelly Cates. Wright has also been an outspoken supporter of female pundits who have faced online abuse, once saying he was “embarrassed” by the vitriol directed at them and firmly asserting they “deserve” their place in the spotlight.

Aluko, alongside fellow pundits Alex Scott and Karen Carney, has faced her share of criticism. But her message is clear: awareness and inclusion are key to building a more equitable future for women in football media.