Celtic coach Martin O'Neill has expressed frustration over Kelechi Iheanacho's persistent questions about his future at the Scottish club. The Nigerian striker, who joined Celtic on a one-year deal last September, has been instrumental in securing a domestic double, scoring in the 3-1 Scottish Cup final victory over Dunfermline Athletic.
O'Neill's Patience Wears Thin
Speaking ahead of discussions with the Celtic hierarchy, O'Neill revealed that Iheanacho has repeatedly approached him about his contract situation. "Iheanacho keeps asking me! 'What do you think, are they going to keep me on?'" O'Neill said, as quoted by The Scotsman. "I have no idea, mate. Stop asking me, I am not the manager anymore." The coach added that the striker even stopped him in the lift on the morning of the Cup final, asking about his future.
Iheanacho's Love for Celtic
Despite the uncertainty, Iheanacho has openly declared his desire to stay at Celtic. "I love the supporters, I love them all," he told club media after the Scottish Cup triumph. "Everyone in the streets of Glasgow, people recognise me. I am happy. The whole of Glasgow is a great city. Hopefully, I will be here next season." The 28-year-old joined Celtic as a free agent after leaving Sevilla and has quickly become a fan favorite.
Reactions from Nigerian Stars
Iheanacho's domestic double success drew congratulations from Nigerian football stars and celebrities. Former Super Falcons captain Desire Oparanozie wrote, "Massive. Congratulations, senior man." Super Eagles captain Wilfred Ndidi posted, "Congrats seniorman," while Taiwo Awoniyi commented, "Onye ball." Former captain William Troost-Ekong reacted with applauding emojis, and Ogenyi Onazi wrote, "Congratulations Nwanne." Other stars like Moses Simon and Jamilu Collins also sent their best wishes.
Celtic's Summer Decisions
Celtic are expected to make quick decisions on short-term signings as pre-season training resumes on June 26. Players like Alex Oxlade-Chamberlain and Iheanacho are eager to clarify their situations. O'Neill himself faces uncertainty over his role, joking that he is "too unpopular" among fellow managers to ask for advice. "I'd love to phone Sir Alex Ferguson up and ask but he would tell me to go to hell," O'Neill joked.
For Iheanacho, the priority is clear: after reviving his career in Scotland, he wants his Celtic journey to continue.
