Kelechi Promise Iheanacho, born on October 3, 1996, is a skilled Nigerian professional footballer serving as a striker for the EFL Championship club Leicester City and the Nigeria national team. Emerging as a prolific goal scorer with impressive creative abilities, Iheanacho displayed immense promise during his youth. Known by the nickname “Senior Man,” he has gained renown for his exceptional vision, adept dribbling skills, remarkable speed, and impressive finishing abilities on the field.
Career
Iheanacho began his football journey in Owerri, Imo State, representing Taye Academy during his youth. His standout performances for Nigeria in the 2013 FIFA U-17 World Cup attracted attention from European clubs, including Arsenal, Sporting CP, and Porto. In December 2012, he traveled to England to discuss a move to Manchester City, signing a pre-contract agreement with plans to officially join on his 18th birthday in October 2014. His achievements were recognized when he was named the Most Promising Talent of the Year by the Confederation of African Football (CAF) in 2013.
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Manchester City Career (2015–2017):
Iheanacho officially joined Manchester City’s Academy in January 2015. Despite delays in obtaining a work permit, he made a significant impact during the 2015-2016 season, finishing as City’s third-highest scorer with an impressive goal-per-minute ratio. In the 2016-2017 season, he continued to shine, becoming part of an exclusive list of players to score 10 Premier League goals before the age of 20.
Leicester City Career (2017–Present):
Iheanacho joined Leicester City in August 2017 on a five-year contract for a reported fee of £25 million. He made a memorable debut, scoring his first goal for Leicester in an EFL Cup tie against Leeds United in October 2017. During the 2020-21 season, Iheanacho’s exceptional goal-scoring run earned him the Premier League Player of the Month award for March 2021. He signed a new three-year contract with Leicester in April 2021.
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In the 2021-22 season, Iheanacho made headlines by scoring the winning goal, an 89th-minute penalty, against his former club Manchester City in the FA Community Shield. Despite Leicester’s relegation in the 2022-23 season, Iheanacho received the club’s Player of the Year award.
Kelechi Iheanacho’s journey from his early days in Nigeria to becoming a key player for Premier League clubs reflects his talent, resilience, and impact on the football field.
Family
Kelechi Iheanacho hails from a family where his father is a businessman, and his late mother was a dedicated schoolteacher. Sadly, his mother passed away when he was just 14 years old, leaving a significant impact on his life. He is the youngest among his three siblings, with one of them being Chibuike Iheanacho, who recognizes immense potential in his younger brother.
During his childhood, Iheanacho faced opposition from his parents when they disapproved of his participation in organized football games with friends. However, as he showcased his talent by leading Imo State to victory in an Abuja youth competition, his parents gradually began to support and believe in his abilities. This early journey reflects the challenges Iheanacho overcame to pursue his passion for football, ultimately becoming a prominent figure in the sport.
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Net-worth
Kelechi Iheanacho boasts a net worth of 26 million euros, a testament to his successful stints with both Manchester City and Leicester City. Regarded as one of Nigeria’s highest-paid players, Iheanacho, who hails from the eastern part of Nigeria, is known for his prudent financial management.