Transfer or injury? Real reason why Iheanacho missed Sevilla’s first preseason training

Former Leicester City forward Kelechi Iheanacho’s absence from Sevilla’s opening preseason training sessions has stirred speculation of his exit from the Ramon Sanchez-Pizjuan Stadium, Soccernet.ng reports. 

Many suggest his no-show was linked to his potential summer transfer. However, fresh information reveals a different reason altogether.

According to reports from Spanish outlet AS, the Super Eagles attacker missed Sevilla’s initial preseason workouts due to fitness-related concerns following a bout of indigestion.

Iheanacho had been training separately from the main group under the supervision of Sevilla’s fitness staff, where he will build up his condition before rejoining full team activities.

AS noted, “Finally, Iheanacho has rejoined the group,” which confirmed he resumed first-team training on July 17 under new Sevilla manager Matías Almeyda.

The timing of Iheanacho’s absence coincided with intensified transfer rumours linking him to Championship side Watford, Greek club Panathinaikos, and Egyptian giants Al Ahly, which also sparked the assumptions that his exclusion was due to an imminent move.

This was further compounded by Sevilla’s financial position, as the La Liga side is reportedly eager to offload players like Iheanacho to ease their wage bill.

Per AS, his salary is estimated at around €4 million annually, which makes him one of the club’s highest earners despite his limited impact last season.

Sevilla’s former manager, Xavier García Pimienta, had earlier admitted back in January about Iheanacho's move away from the club:

“I don’t know if Kelechi will stay until the end of the season. There have been offers for him; he is established in England and I’m sure he wants to play more. I understand that he wants to leave.”

However, under Almeyda, there might be a shift in approach. Rather than sidelining Iheanacho outright, the Argentine tactician is reportedly assessing all players during preseason before making final squad decisions.