Rodgers Confident Iheanacho Will Shine At Celtic

Rodgers Confident Iheanacho Will Shine At Celtic

Sampson Adedeji

Celtic manager Brendan Rodgers has expressed confidence that Nigeria international Kelechi Iheanacho will make a strong impact at the club following his deadline-day move to the Scottish Premiership champions, BSNSports.com.ng reports.

Just a day after parting ways with Spanish side Sevilla, the 28-year-old forward reunited with Rodgers in Glasgow, signing a one-year contract with the option of an additional year.

“Celtic Football Club is delighted to announce the signing of Kelechi Iheanacho on a one-year deal, subject to international clearance, with the club having the option of a further year,” read a statement from the club.

Rodgers, who previously managed Iheanacho during their time together at Leicester City, praised the striker’s qualities and predicted he would be a hit in Scotland.

 “I know Kelechi so well and what he can bring to the team,” Rodgers said.

 “He is such a talented player, with great ability, athleticism, and work rate. I am sure he will love being at Celtic and I believe our fans will enjoy watching him. He has great experience and is right in his peak years, so he can be a fantastic signing for us. I am certain he will make a big contribution.”

Iheanacho began his professional career with Manchester City, where he won a League Cup medal before moving to Leicester City, making over 200 appearances and lifting the FA Cup in 2021 under Rodgers.

He joined Sevilla in 2024 but later spent part of the 2024/25 season on loan with Middlesbrough in the English Championship.

On the international stage, Iheanacho has earned nearly 60 caps for Nigeria, playing a pivotal role in the Super Eagles’ run to the Africa Cup of Nations final in 2023.