Nigeria Players Abroad
Odion Ighalo reveals Motivation behind Saudi Arabia move
By Saheed Afolabi
Nigerian football star, Jude Ighalo, has opened up about his decision to play in the Saudi Arabia league, citing financial motives as his primary driving force.
The former Super Eagles striker made the move to Saudi Arabia in 2021, joining Al Shabab for a season before transferring to Al Hilal and currently playing for Al Wehda.
Ighalo, now 34, expressed uncertainty about when he would retire but indicated that he plans to play for at least three more years.
“I don’t know when God says stop, but I know I’m not going to be more than three years before I stop. I’ve played for passion all my life; I have to play for money now,” Ighalo stated in an interview with Oma TV.
He emphasized that while passion drove his football career in the past, his current focus is on financial gains.
“I’ve played for passion all my life, I have to play for money now,” Ighalo added.
The seasoned striker has made a significant impact in the Saudi Pro League this season, scoring 12 goals in 26 appearances.
Al-Wehda currently occupies the 12th position in the Saudi Pro League standings, amassing 32 points from 28 matches.
