Super Eagles forward Kelechi Iheanacho has extended his Manchester City stay to 2021.
The 19-year-old whose existing contract was to run out in 2019 penned a two-year extension as Pep Guardiola declared faith in the Nigerian who made a first-team impact at City back in 2014 on the summer tour of America, having caught the eye for Nigeria at the Under 17 World Cup a year before.
Iheanacho enjoyed a fine breakthrough season in the premier league last season scoring 14-times in all competitionto emerge as the club’s third highest goalscorer behind Kevin de Bruyne and Sergio Aguero.
“Kelechi is a natural goalscorer.I knew about him before, but I’ve been really impressed with him since I arrived,” Guardiola said.
“I like his personality, his attitude, his ability – we hope to help him reach the highest level and to realise his full potential.”
Beaming with smiles Iheanacho told Manchester City TV: “I can’t express how I’m feeling! I’m very happy to sign my new deal for thisClub, I’m excited.
“I just need to keep working hard and express my feelings on the pitch, and work really well and do great things for the team. I’m happy and I appreciate everything the Club has done for me so far at this point so I really need to help and work for them as well.”
Iheanacho was City’s third-highest scorer in all competitions, behind Sergio Aguero and Kevin de Bruyne and the youngsters impact was more appreciated when his goal in the final day of last season earned a 1-1 against Swansea and confirmed the Citizens UEFA Champions League ticket at the expense of rivals Manchester United.
Iheanacho is yet to start any competitive game under Guardiolathis season but was a late substitute in the 2-1 win against Sunderland at the Etihad in the Match Day one of the premier league.
