Kelechi Iheanacho has dismissed criticism surrounding his return to the Nigeria squad, insisting he would answer the call to represent the Super Eagles regardless of where or how he was invited to play.
The 30-year-old forward is back with Nigeria after more than a year away from the senior national team, having last featured in the Super Eagles’ 2-2 draw with Jamaica in the Unity Cup on May 31, 2025.
His recall by head coach Eric Chelle has generated mixed reactions, particularly after Iheanacho’s move to Turkish second-tier side Bursaspor following a brief spell with Scottish Premiership club Celtic.
But the former Manchester City and Leicester City forward says criticism will not change his desire to represent Nigeria.
“I have been involved with the Nigerian national teams for a very long time, starting from the U12s, U13s, U15s and U17s, all the way to the Super Eagles,” Iheanacho told Super Eagles media.
“I don’t come to the national team because of anybody or anything else. I come because of the love I have for the game and the passion I have for representing my country.
“It is every Nigerian player’s dream to play for the Super Eagles, and I have been fortunate to live that dream for a long time, from the junior levels right up to the senior team.
“Even if it were five-a-side and I was invited to represent Nigeria, I would come and play.”
Kelechi Iheanacho’s stunning start at Bursaspor with eight goals in six matches but insist Turkish football is tougher than people think.
Iheanacho, who has 19 goals in 55 appearances for Nigeria, said his only concern is the faith shown in him by the national team coach.
“Whatever anyone wants to say doesn’t concern me. As long as the coach believes in me and gives me a callup, I will always come and play for my country,” he added.
“It is a thing of joy for me, and I’m loving every moment of it. I’m really happy to be here with the boys, and hopefully, we will have a very good outing on Tuesday.”
Iheanacho has also defended his decision to continue his career in Turkey, rejecting suggestions that playing in the country’s second tier represents a backward step.
After leaving Celtic, the forward joined Bursaspor and has since impressed with his goalscoring form, earning his way back into Chelle’s plans.
readmore: CAF apologises to Super Eagles, bans Guinea-Bissau stadium over poor pitch
He believes the quality and competitiveness of Turkish football is often underestimated from outside the country.
“Individually, every player has their reasons for choosing the club or league they play in. For me, football is the same wherever you go in the world. You still have to go out there and play football,” Iheanacho said.
“Some of us are playing in Turkey, and there are several other Nigerians in the division where I play. Maybe people don’t know much about them, but it is a very good league.
“I don’t know how people rate the league from the outside, but it is really competitive and definitely not as easy as some people might think. You have to come and play there before you can understand how difficult it is.
“My teammates can testify to that as well. I’m enjoying my football there, and I believe the other Nigerians are enjoying it too. It’s a good league for Nigerian players, and I’m happy to be there.”
CLICK HERE TO JOIN ATHLETIC NG WHATSAPP CHANNEL NOW!
