I retired too soon from Super Eagles, says ex-Manchester United star Odion Ighalo

Ex-Super Eagles striker, Odion Jude Ighalo, has revealed that he announced his retirement from international football too soon as he still believes he has something in him to offer to the national team.

The former Manchester United striker enjoyed a decent international career with the Super Eagles as he won bronze with the team at the 2019 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON), finishing as the top scorer.

After scooping the Golden Boot for the tournament, the 34-year-old striker was also instrumental in Nigeria’s qualification for the 2018 World Cup.

However, with the AFCON coming in January 2024, and the World Cup qualifiers following suit, it is left to be seen if Jose Peseiro or any other incoming coach will consider a return for Ighalo to the Super Eagles squad.

Meanwhile, the former Al Hilal man has not been with the team since they failed to qualify for the World Cup last year and he went on to voice his his biggest disappointments.

“I do not think about the national team conversations for now,” Ighalo told Elegbete TV.

“You never can say ‘never’ because the last time I announced my retirement, it felt too soon. But now, I do not have a lot to say other than continue my club football and see how life goes.

“The only downtime I remember was the game against Argentina at the 2018 World Cup in Russia, where I missed a big chance, and the whole of Nigeria wanted to bury me alive.

“Also, for the last World Cup in Qatar which Nigeria did not qualify for, I believed we had the tools and potential to qualify.

“We were playing at home (to Ghana) which was an advantage to us, and the stadium was crowded with fans. But due to some unforeseen circumstances and selfish reasons, the World Cup ticket was lost, but that is gone and we have to look forward.”