Celtic manager Brendan Rodgers has expressed confidence in Super Eagles striker Kelechi Iheanacho, predicting he will become a pivotal player for the Scottish champions. Iheanacho, 28, made a memorable debut at Rugby Park last weekend after joining Celtic on a free transfer from Sevilla.
In his debut match, Iheanacho came off the bench in the 70th minute, replacing Daizen Maeda, and successfully converted a penalty in the 96th minute, securing a dramatic 2-1 victory over Kilmarnock.
Rodgers, who previously managed Iheanacho during his time at Leicester City, praised the striker’s character and anticipated even better performances as he regains full fitness. “There’s no doubt he’s got big moments in him. Once he gets fitter, he is only going to get better,” Rodgers stated. “I know what he brings, the confidence he brings and what a goal would do for him. I was really pleased for him.”
This goal marked Iheanacho’s first in competitive football in six months, following a challenging period with Sevilla and a loan at Middlesbrough last season. His struggles also led to him missing Nigeria’s recent World Cup qualifiers against Rwanda and South Africa. Now, he is eager to revitalize both his club and international career in Glasgow.
While Iheanacho’s Celtic journey is just beginning, fellow Super Eagles forward Ademola Lookman faces a turbulent time at Atalanta. Despite being included in Atalanta’s Champions League squad, the 28-year-old has yet to make an appearance in Serie A this season.
Head coach Ivan Juric has raised concerns about Lookman’s commitment, a sentiment echoed by director Luca Percassi, who emphasized the club’s need for players willing to give their all. “We know how important Lookman is for Atalanta, but the club has some very basic principles, which need players who are ready to give 100 per cent for this jersey,” Percassi told DAZN Italia.
Lookman’s summer was marred by a failed transfer to Inter Milan, which reportedly led him to go on strike. With the transfer window now closed, he remains at Atalanta at least until January, but uncertainty surrounds his future role.
Atalanta is set to face PSG in their Champions League opener on Wednesday, with the traveling squad to be announced today.
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