“Pellegrini, Brendan Rodgers, Pep Guardiola, Clichy” – Super Eagles star names biggest influence on career

Super Eagles forward Kelechi Iheanacho has revealed some of the biggest influences on his football career, Soccernet.ng reports. 

The Nigerian attacker slowly adjusted to life in Spain following a move away from England to join Sevilla. Following a poor start, the Super Eagles forward have returned to England where he will don the colours of Middlesbrough till the end of the season.

Speaking during his unveiling, the Nigeria international has revealed former managers and teammates who have played a key role in his professional career.

What Did Iheanacho Say?

The former Leicester City striker has acknowledged the impact of several managers and players, spanning his time at Manchester City, Leicester City, and the Nigerian national team.

Speaking about those who have helped him grow, Iheanacho said:

“Biggest influence on my career? There is quite a couple. So many people helped me throughout my career, obviously, managers as well, [Manuel] Pellegrini, Brendan Rodgers, Pep Guardiola. Players as well Clichy, Kompany, Yaya Toure, obviously, Jamie Vardy as well. There is a lot to be mentioned. A lot of people have helped me throughout my career even in the [Nigerian] national team as well, John Mikel Obi, so many coaches have helped me as well, so that’s them.”

Iheanacho’s time at Manchester City

Iheanacho’s journey to the top took off at Manchester City, where he emerged as a bright prospect under Manuel Pellegrini.

The Chilean coach handed him his senior debut in 2015, and the young forward quickly made an impression with his goal-scoring ability.

Under Pep Guardiola, Iheanacho continued his development, rubbing shoulders with the likes of Vincent Kompany, Yaya Toure, and Gaël Clichy at that time.

Despite showing promise at the Etihad Stadium, competition for places saw him move away from the club where he joined fellow Premier League rivals, Leicester City.

Iheanacho: A Key Player at Leicester City?

Iheanacho joined Leicester City in 2017 where he linked up with Jamie Vardy. The Nigerian, initially struggling for consistency found his best form under Brendan Rodgers, especially in the 2020-21 season, where he emerged as Leicester’s top scorer and played a key role in their FA Cup triumph.

His relationship with Rodgers helped refine his attacking instincts, and alongside Vardy, he became a trusted attacking option for the Foxes.