Kelechi Iheanacho: How Nigerian Prodigy Fell From Grace
Sevilla and Nigerian footballer, Kelechi Iheanacho. Photo Credit- Sports Market International
Once heralded as one of Nigeria’s brightest footballing talents, Kelechi Iheanacho’s journey in professional football has taken a disappointing turn. From being named the FIFA U-17 World Cup Golden Ball winner in 2013 to becoming an average player for both club and country in recent years, Iheanacho’s career trajectory shows promise yet unfulfilled potentials.
This feature is set to discuss his rise, fall, and the possible avenues for redeeming his declining career.
The Rise of a Prodigy
To begin this piece, it is important to know that Iheanacho was a prodigy with so much potentials for both club and country. Iheanacho’s rise began with his appearance on the global stage during the 2013 FIFA U-17 World Cup in the United Arab Emirates.He made 11 goals contributions, leading Nigeria to the title and earning the tournament’s Golden Ball.
His performances caught the attention of major European clubs, with Manchester City ultimately securing his signature in 2014.Under Manuel Pellegrini and later Pep Guardiola, Iheanacho initially thrived at Manchester City. In the 2015/16 season, he scored 14 goals in all competitions despite limited playing time.
His ability to score decisive goals, particularly in the Premier League, made him one of City’s most exciting young players. In 2017, Iheanacho moved to Leicester City for £25 million, seeking regular first-team football. While his early years at Leicester showed promise, particularly in cup competitions, consistency eluded him.
Iheanacho Fall: Struggles for Form and Relevance
Iheanacho’s time at Leicester has been marked by sporadic moments of brilliance overshadowed by extended periods of mediocrity. Often second-choice to Jamie Vardy and later Patson Daka, Iheanacho struggled to make his place as a regular starter.
Despite a standout 2020/21 season where he scored 19 goals in all competitions, his performances have waned in subsequent years. In the 2023/24 season, he managed only 4 league goals in 22 appearances. In addition, his body language on the pitch and frequent missed chances indicate a player low on confidence.
Once seen as the heir to Nigeria’s great strikers like Rashidi Yekini and Yakubu Aiyegbeni, Iheanacho’s role with the Super Eagles has diminished. Coaches have often overlooked him in favor of younger or more in-form players like Victor Osimhen and Samuel Chukwueze.
Furthermore, his inability to influence games was evident in Nigeria’s 2022 FIFA World Cup qualification failure.Additionally, the weight of expectations, coupled with his struggles on the pitch, appears to have taken a psychological toll on Iheanacho. His demeanor suggests a player battling self-doubt and frustration.
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What Went Wrong for Iheanacho
At both Manchester City and Leicester, Iheanacho struggled to adapt to roles that didn’t align with his natural abilities. While he was used primarily as an impact substitute in City, limiting his development as a consistent starter, at Leicester, he was often been deployed out of position, either as a second striker or in a deeper role, reducing his attacking instincts in the penalty area.
The presence of established strikers like Vardy at club and Osimhen at country levels has limited Iheanacho’s opportunities to lead the line. Modern football demands versatility, pressing, and good work rate from forwards and these qualities are not strong in Iheanacho. His lack of pace and physicality compared to his peers has further marginalized him.
The Way Out: Suggestions for Redemption
Iheanacho despite his tragic fall is still a player with more years and can give his best to any club or even the Nigerian Super Eagles. However the most suitable way to redeem himself is a change of scenery, while he has left English football to Sevilla in the Spanish la Liga, where he still continues to struggle for form.
Perhaps, a complete move outside of European football to the Saudi league or even the Egyptian premier League with club like Al Ahly to have indicated interest in his signature could reignite his career.
Moreover, a good use of a football coaching specialist will help him to improve his playing performances. Iheanacho would benefit from working with a manager who understands his strengths and builds a system around him.
Furthermore, Iheanacho must prove himself at club level to reclaim a prominent role with the Super Eagles. A successful appearance in 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (if selected) could remind fans and coaches of his talent and engaging a sports psychologist could help Iheanacho overcome self-doubt and rediscover his confidence. Mental fortitude will be key to his resurgence.
Is Iheanacho Redemption Possible?
Finally to address the big question “can Iheanacho redeem himself from this tragic fall?” The story of Kelechi Iheanacho is far from over. At 28, he still has several years left to make an impact. His raw talent, evident in his early years, hasn’t disappeared—it simply needs nurturing and direction.
While the odds may seem stacked against him, football has always provided stories of players who overcame adversity to shine again. With the right environment, coaching, and mindset, Iheanacho could yet write a redemption story that inspires future generations.
For now, fans of Nigerian football and those who remember his sensational moments from the U-17 World Cup can only hope that Kelechi Iheanacho finds his way back to the heights that was expected of him.
