“Clout Chaser” – Ex-Man United striker Odion Ighalo shuts down dating rumours with UK-based podcaster

Former Manchester United and Super Eagles striker Odion Ighalo has dismissed dating rumours involving UK-based podcaster Esther, Soccernet.ng reports. 

Earlier, Nigerian media outlet Instablog reported that Ighalo and Esther had sparked dating rumours after both shared pictures from the same car.

It wouldn’t have been a case for a random social media user, but until the chair, which was branded in Ighalo’s name, was spotted by Nigerian football fans, with the lady sending out captions that raised an eyebrow.

The reports gained traction as fans speculated about a possible romance between the two. But, after much comment from the fans on social media, Al Wehda FC number 9 has called out the speculation as a bid for attention.

Ighalo took to social media to shut down the claims, where he expressed frustration over the rumours. In a leaked chat with the podcaster, he labelled her a clout-chaser, distancing himself from any romantic ties with the podcaster.

Esther has also responded to Ighalo’s reaction, claiming the former Watford FC striker was reacting out of pretense.

Is Odion Ighalo Still Married?

​As of April 2025, Ighalo is no longer married. His marriage to Sonia Adesuwa ended in divorce in 2022. The couple married in 2009, separated in 2019, reconciled in 2021, but ultimately divorced in 2022 without Ighalo’s consent.

Sonia cited issues such as Ighalo’s reluctance to inform his family about their reconciliation and alleged infidelity as reasons for the divorce.

Since their separation, Sonia has publicly addressed their marital issues and has found a new partner, where she expressed happiness in her current relationship.

Following this, there has been no official statement or public confirmation regarding Odion Ighalo’s current relationship or marital status.