Kelechi Iheanacho, the Nigerian forward and Super Eagles star, has officially parted ways with Leicester City.
This decision came after both parties disagreed on the terms of a new contract. Iheanacho, who joined the Foxes in August 2017 on a five-year deal valued at £25 million, will become a free player when the summer transfer window opens.
Iheanacho’s journey with Leicester City has been a rollercoaster of triumphs and setbacks. He debuted in a match against Arsenal and scored his first goal in an EFL Cup tie against Leeds United.
Making history as the first player in English football to benefit from a Video Assistant Referee (VAR) decision, he netted a goal against Fleetwood Town.
Though initially not a regular starter, Iheanacho capitalised on injuries to key players, scoring an impressive 12 goals in 10 games during those opportunities. His first Premier League hat-trick against Sheffield United and his pivotal role in FA Cup matches, including scoring the decisive goal in an FA Cup semi-final victory over Southampton, etched his name in the club’s history.
His heroics led Leicester to their first FA Cup final since 1969, and he secured the win in the 2021 FA Community Shield against Manchester City with a crucial penalty.
Iheanacho was awarded the Premier League Player of the Month in March 2021, a testament to his exceptional form. He then extended his contract with Leicester until 2024, continuing to deliver stellar performances.
Despite the club’s relegation from the Premier League, his contributions were recognised as he earned Leicester’s Player of the Year award.
In the recently concluded Championship season, Iheanacho played 26 games in all competitions, scoring five goals and providing six assists, playing a significant role in Leicester’s promotion back to the English Premier League.
However, as Leicester City returns to the top flight, Iheanacho will seek new opportunities elsewhere.
His departure has already sparked transfer speculation, with clubs like Trabzonspor, Crystal Palace, Everton, and Aston Villa reportedly keen on signing him.
Ndidi, another Nigeria Senior team footballer, faces an uncertain future as his contract with Leicester ends this month. While Iheanacho’s departure has been confirmed, Ndidi’s status remains unresolved.
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