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Ighalo Reveals Career Move to China Amidst West Brom Interest
In a candid interview with Sky Sports, Super Eagles striker Odion Ighalo shed light on his decision to transition from Watford to the Chinese Super League side Changchun Yatai, a move that materialized after West Bromwich Albion’s interest failed to materialize.
The Nigerian international acknowledged that his shift to China was motivated by a desire to salvage his career, even though it meant parting ways with the English Premier League, a league he holds in high regard. Ighalo, who experienced a challenging second season with the Hornets under manager Walter Mazzarri, disclosed, “I moved (to China) because that was what was best for me.”
The striker elaborated on the difficulties he faced during his last season at Watford, citing a struggle to adapt to the new managerial tactics and systems implemented by Mazzarri. “My second season in the Premier League was not that great,” he confessed, “we had a new manager and a new system, which meant I played on the left and sometimes on the right. It was difficult, everything was not going right, and I did not find it easy.”
Despite his departure, Ighalo maintained a deep connection with Watford, expressing admiration for the fans, players, and particularly his partnership with Troy Deeney. He confessed to waking up at 3 am in China to watch Watford play, emphasizing their potential for further success.
Addressing his absence from Nigeria’s recent matches due to a knee injury, Ighalo also offered advice to Arsenal’s Jack Wilshere, suggesting that the midfielder should seek first-team opportunities elsewhere if he aspires to secure a spot in the upcoming World Cup. “For him (Wilshere) to get more games and to be ready for the World Cup, he has to play more,” Ighalo emphasized, “If he cannot play at Arsenal, he can play at any other big team in the Premier League.”
