Chidera Ejuke urges frustrated Kelechi Iheanacho not to leave Sevilla

By Monsurah Olatunji

Nigeria international Chidera Ejuke has expressed support for his compatriot Kelechi Iheanacho, urging him to stay at Sevilla despite his limited playing time this season.

Both Super Eagles players joined the Spanish club last summer, with Ejuke arriving from CSKA Moscow and Iheanacho from Leicester City.

While Ejuke has adapted well to life at Sevilla and even earned the club’s Player of the Month award for September, Iheanacho has faced challenges in securing a place in the starting lineup.

Since joining Sevilla on a free transfer, Iheanacho has only appeared in nine games, failing to score or provide an assist.

His struggles have led to speculation about a potential January departure, with rumors suggesting a return to England could be on the cards.

In an interview with El Correo, Ejuke addressed Iheanacho’s difficulties, acknowledging that the forward is currently low on confidence.

“I wouldn’t say things are going well for him,” Ejuke admitted.

“I think as a player you obviously need confidence, and sometimes it doesn’t happen right away. But I think it’s all a matter of confidence, and once you get that, you get going. For all players, it’s normal to go through this.”

Ejuke, who has shown promise at Sevilla, urged Iheanacho to remain patient and focus on improving at the Ramón Sánchez Pizjuán Stadium, rather than leaving the club amidst the ongoing challenges.

“I think he should stay and work through it,” Ejuke added. “Things will turn around with time.”

As Sevilla’s Nigerian duo continue to adjust to life in Spain, Ejuke’s message of encouragement underscores the importance of perseverance, both for himself and his countryman.