Ike Ugbo reveals why he snubbed former UCL champions for Genk

The former Chelsea man was wanted at the Stade Velodrome in the summer, but he opted for a move to the Belgian Cup Champions.

Nigerian striker Ike Ugbo has stated his reason for choosing Genk instead of Marseille. The former Chelsea striker explained that he was convinced by the ongoing project at the Belgian club.

Ugbo had a fantastic time during his loan spell from Chelsea at Cercle Brugge last season, scoring 17 times in 34 appearances.

However, his performances weren’t sufficient to win a shirt in Thomas Tuchel’s team. With that realisation, he decided to seek a permanent move away from Stamford Bridge in the summer.

He wasn’t short of suitors, as a host of Belgian sides were after his signature. Marseille were also lurking, hoping to swoop for the Nigerian, but the 22-year-old opted to join compatriot Paul Onuachu at the Luminus stadium.

Ugbo cited the high chances of success with the Smurfs as a major reason for his decision.

“I spoke with the club at the end of last season, and they had a great project for me.,” He told footmercato.

“Other teams came forward, but I felt I could find what I needed here at this point in my career. It was the project that won me over.

I’m not yet at the level where I can consider winning the Champions League or playing a major role elsewhere. I have to be smarter in my choices,” he added.

The forward has had a good time at the Smurfs, scoring the winner in Genk’s 1-0 victory against Anderlecht.

He will hope to continue with his brilliant form when Genk travel to Austria to take on Austria Vienna in their opening game of the Europa League.