Celtic manager Brendan Rodgers has expressed confidence that Kelechi Iheanacho “will make a big contribution” after securing the Nigerian striker on a free transfer just ahead of the Europa League signing deadline.
The 28-year-old joined the Scottish club on a one-year deal, a day after agreeing to terminate his contract with Sevilla. Iheanacho’s arrival follows criticism from Celtic supporters over the club’s failure to sign a striker on transfer deadline day.
Rodgers, who previously managed Iheanacho during his seven-year spell at Leicester City, said on Celtic’s website:
“He is such a talented player, with great ability, athleticism and work-rate. He has great experience and he is right in his peak years, so he can be a great signing for us. I am sure he will make a big contribution to the team.”
The manager had previously insisted that Adam Idah would not be allowed to leave without a replacement. When the Irish forward was sold to Swansea City on deadline day without a replacement in place, the Affiliation of Celtic Supporters Clubs expressed outrage, calling on chief executive Michael Nicholson to explain the “failure to strengthen the squad” and “the disarray witnessed on the final evening of the transfer window.”
Rodgers, however, believes Iheanacho will quickly win over the fans. “He will love being at Celtic and I believe our fans will love what he brings,” he said.
Iheanacho, capped 59 times for Nigeria, began his senior career at Manchester City, winning a League Cup medal before joining Leicester City, where he lifted the FA Cup in 2021. He also helped Nigeria to a second-place finish at the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations.
The striker moved to Sevilla last summer and finished the season on loan at English Championship side Middlesbrough.
