Ighalo Discloses His Pre-Game Rituals

It is hard to separate footballers and their superstitious beliefs, and the United striker is no exception.

For quite a few footballers, having a pre-game ritual or superstition is more than just a religious habit, but it often gives them a mental advantage ahead of an important match.

Several players tend to wear their right footgear first as they hope it will bring them good luck.

Former Arsenal midfielder Cesc Fabregas once confessed that in his locker inside the dressing room, he kisses a ring his wife gave to him four times before heading to the pitch.

While Wayne Rooney also admitted to forming the habit of eating a bowl of his favourite cereal, Coco Pops, before every match.

For Nigerian forward Odion Ighalo, it is something more spiritual.

The 30-year-old reveals that he prefers listening to calm, worship songs before running on to the football pitch as it helps him stay relaxed.

Speaking to manutd.com in response to a question on what his pre-game rituals entail, the on-loan forward said:

“Well, before I go out on the pitch to play, I am just listening to my worship songs and listening to calm music that will keep me fresh, positive, and thinking about the game. I like to listen to music, so I am relaxed and good to go.”

It has undoubtedly been effective has Ighalo smashed in goal number four in his third start for Ole Gunnar Solskjaer’s men before COVID-19 forced football in England to be suspended.