Kelechi Iheanacho, the forward for both the Super Eagles and Celtic, has responded to recent discussions about his fitness and a previously unsuccessful loan stint at Celtic earlier this year, according to Soccernet.ng.
The 28-year-old made an immediate impact by converting a penalty after coming off the bench in his debut match for Brendan Rodgers’ team, helping secure a 2-1 victory over Kilmarnock.
Reflecting on his return, Iheanacho described joining Celtic as a significant chance to demonstrate his abilities at Rugby Park.
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Last weekend’s goal marked Iheanacho’s first in over half a year, following a challenging period where he managed just one goal during his loan spell at Middlesbrough under Michael Carrick, which began in February.
Prior to that, the striker struggled to score in nine league appearances for Sevilla. Addressing the criticism he endured during these tough spells, Iheanacho acknowledged it as an inherent part of a footballer’s career.
“Criticism is something you face constantly as a professional footballer,” the 2013 FIFA U-17 World Cup champion shared with Gazette Live UK.
“When things aren’t going your way, it’s important to stay composed and focused. Football is a professional sport, so you have to keep working hard. Once you find your rhythm, you just keep pushing forward.”
Iheanacho Responds to Fitness Speculations
Before his loan move to Middlesbrough, Iheanacho was linked with a transfer to Celtic, but concerns about his physical condition surfaced, echoing similar doubts expressed by fans during his time at Boro. Many supporters felt he arrived at Teesside not in peak shape.
Despite numerous social media posts showing him training diligently behind the scenes, he appeared to struggle to reach full match fitness.
Kelechi Iheanacho putting in hard work during the international break. pic.twitter.com/qHS8HPtCt5
– POOJA!!! (@PoojaMedia) March 25, 2025
Addressing these doubts, Iheanacho firmly stated that he is in excellent shape and ready for the demands of the season.
“If you watch the matches closely, you’ll notice I’m constantly making runs to receive the ball. I’m fit and prepared for the season ahead,” he explained.
“Am I ready to play a full 90 minutes? Absolutely, time will show. The squad is packed with talented players, and training alongside them has helped me learn a lot in recent days.”
When asked about his decision to reject Celtic in the winter transfer window in favor of Middlesbrough, Iheanacho was succinct but optimistic about his current situation.
“That chapter is behind me now. I’ve always wanted to play for Celtic-it’s a prestigious club, and I’m familiar with the manager,” he said.
“It didn’t work out previously, but now feels like the perfect moment. Having worked with the manager before, and having taken important penalties for him and other teams, he trusts my abilities.”
“He knows how to bring out the best in me. Joining Celtic is a great opportunity, and I’m committed to giving my all for the club.”
The former FA Cup champion signed an initial one-year contract with Celtic, which includes an option to extend for an additional year based on performance criteria.
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