Kelechi Iheanacho recalls doubts surrounding his Manchester City move

By: Monsurah Olatunji

Nigeria international Kelechi Iheanacho has opened up about the doubts he faced when making his move to the Premier League, reflecting on the challenges that shaped his early career decisions.

Following a standout performance at the 2013 FIFA U17 World Cup in the United Arab Emirates, where he scored six goals to win the Golden Ball award, Iheanacho made the leap to Manchester City.

However, his move was met with skepticism as many questioned whether he could succeed at a top-tier club.

Iheanacho spent three years at Manchester City, where he won the League Cup in the 2015/16 season after being promoted to the first team.

He then joined Leicester City, where he spent seven successful years, including winning the FA Cup in 2021 and the Community Shield just three months later. His prolific performances with the Foxes earned him a reputation as a reliable striker and a move to Sevilla as a free agent.

Reflecting on his early years, Iheanacho recalled the doubts that were cast over his potential during his time at Manchester City.

Speaking to BBC Sport, he said, “So many people told me that ‘you’re not going to make it, it’s a big team, so many big players, it’s not really good for you to go there.’”

He continued, “Obviously, I made a decision as a family to go there. It was a great journey. So, thank God.”

Iheanacho’s resilience and success at top clubs in both England and Spain have proven his doubters wrong, cementing his status as one of Nigeria’s most talented footballers.