Iheanacho Urged to Stay at Celtic for Champions League Glory
Retold by Oddsrama · 9 July 2026
Kelechi Iheanacho is facing calls from former Nigerian internationals to lock horns with Celtic for at least another season. The 29-year-old striker arrived at Parkhead on a free transfer from Sevilla last summer, but contract talks stalled when the campaign ended, leaving his future uncertain. With interest from clubs in Turkey and Brazil reportedly circling, the forward is now weighing his next move — and one man who knows Scottish football well is urging him to stay put.
Juwon Oshaniwa, a former Hearts defender who carved out a two-year spell in the Scottish Premiership, believes Iheanacho would be making a mistake to leave Glasgow. Speaking to Brila.net, the ex-Super Eagles left-back highlighted the platform Celtic offers: consistent Champions League football, a robust domestic setup, and the chance to add more silverware. Last season tells the story perfectly. After shaking off an injury setback early on, Iheanacho bagged nine goals and an assist across 24 appearances, playing a vital role as Celtic swept the domestic double — both the Premiership and the Scottish FA Cup. "For him to win the double with the team last season, he is already writing his chapter in the lore of Celtic legends," Oshaniwa argued, suggesting the striker should capitalize on that momentum rather than chase pastures elsewhere.
From a betting perspective, Iheanacho's form — particularly after his mid-season injury — makes Celtic a solid attacking proposition for the upcoming campaign. A squad retaining such proven goal contributors, especially one who has tasted silverware and European competition, typically carries better odds in domestic markets. Celtic holds a contractual option to extend Iheanacho's deal by a further year, so negotiations could yet rekindle as the transfer window opens. Whether he embraces Oshaniwa's wisdom or opts for a fresh challenge abroad, the striker's decision will shape both his career trajectory and Celtic's attacking firepower moving forward.
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