Celtic manager Brendan Rodgers is confident that new signing Kelechi Iheanacho will shine at the club and win over the fans following the Nigerian striker’s free transfer, reports PUNCH Sports Extra.
The 28-year-old signed a one-year contract with the Scottish champions shortly after leaving Sevilla, joining just before the Europa League registration deadline. Iheanacho’s arrival comes as a response to fan frustration over the club’s lack of attacking reinforcements on deadline day.
Rodgers, who previously coached Iheanacho at Leicester City, expressed his faith in the forward’s ability to quickly adapt and make a difference for the team.
“He’s an exceptionally talented footballer with great technical skill, athleticism, and a fantastic work ethic,” Rodgers told Celtic’s official website.
“He brings plenty of experience and is in the prime of his career, so I have no doubt he’ll be a key asset for us. I’m confident his impact will be immediate.”
Iheanacho’s signing comes at a time of unrest among Celtic’s supporters, particularly following the transfer of Adam Idah to Swansea City without securing a replacement. The Affiliation of Celtic Supporters Clubs voiced their disappointment, criticizing the club’s approach to squad strengthening and the last-minute dealings in the transfer window.
But Rodgers insists Iheanacho is the caliber of player needed to bolster his attacking options. “He’ll relish life at Celtic, and I have no doubt our supporters will appreciate the qualities he brings,” Rodgers said.
Iheanacho’s career began at Manchester City, where he won the League Cup, before his move to Leicester City, where he featured in more than 200 matches and was instrumental in their 2021 FA Cup triumph.
An experienced international, Iheanacho has earned 59 caps for Nigeria and was part of the team that finished as runners-up in the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations.
After leaving Leicester last summer, he made a switch to Sevilla, and went on loan to Middlesbrough in the English Championship to finish last season.
