Super Eagles forward Kelechi Iheanacho has dismissed suggestions that financial considerations influenced his decision to leave Scottish champions Celtic for Turkish second-tier side Bursaspor during the summer.
The 29-year-old left Celtic after helping the club secure a domestic double last season, choosing not to extend his contract despite expectations that he would remain in Scotland.
His move to Turkey’s 1. Lig surprised many, but Iheanacho insists it was a personal decision and not motivated by money.
Speaking to the Nigeria Football Federation ahead of Tuesday’s friendly against Russia, the former Leicester City forward defended the quality of football in Turkey’s second tier.
“As a player, you have your reasons for choosing any club you join in Turkey. For me, football is the same all over the world, no matter where you go,” Iheanacho said.
He also rejected the perception that the division is easy, pointing out the growing number of Nigerian players competing in the league.
“I don’t know how people rate the league, but it’s a genuinely tough division and not as easy as people think,” he added.
Iheanacho’s decision has already paid off on the pitch. The striker has enjoyed a remarkable start to life at Bursaspor, scoring 11 goals and providing two assists in eight league appearances.
His impressive form earned him a recall to the Super Eagles under coach Eric Chelle after an extended absence from international football.
Iheanacho will now hope to continue his scoring form when Nigeria face Russia in their international friendly, as the Eagles seek to recover from their recent 3-0 defeat to Guinea-Bissau.
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