Rivers United head coach, Finidi George, has called on Super Eagles forward Kelechi Iheanacho to leave Sevilla FC to safeguard his career and reputation following a difficult start to life at the Spanish La Liga side.
Iheanacho, who joined Sevilla on a free transfer from Leicester City last summer, has struggled for game time under manager José Luis Mendilibar.
Despite scoring three goals in 11 appearances, all his goals have come in Copa del Rey matches—his only games with full 90-minute outings.
In La Liga, the 28-year-old has played just 401 minutes across nine games, with only five starts.
Most recently, Iheanacho was left out of Sevilla’s matchday squads against Girona and Valencia and was an unused substitute in their 4-2 defeat to Real Madrid.
Reports suggest Sevilla has advised the striker to find a new club before the January transfer window closes, prompting Finidi to voice his dissatisfaction.
“I think they have disrespected him in many ways,” Finidi told Africa Foot.
“They expected a lot from him when he arrived, but it’s still early days, and he hasn’t been given enough time to settle in.”
”In my opinion, he should leave the club if any good offers come along.
“He is 28 and still has a lot to offer, but he needs to be at a place where he is truly appreciated.”
”A return to England would be a great option, but he could also explore opportunities in new environments.”
Several English clubs, including West Ham and Watford, have reportedly expressed interest in Iheanacho, raising the possibility of a Premier League return for the former Manchester City striker.
Meanwhile, his compatriot and Sevilla teammate, Chidera Ejuke, believes in Iheanacho’s potential to turn his fortunes around.
Ejuke, who has become a fan favorite since joining Sevilla, acknowledged the challenges players face when adapting to a new club.
“Sometimes it doesn’t happen right away,” Ejuke told el Correo.
“I think it’s all a matter of confidence, and when you get that, you get going. It’s normal for players to go through this.”
Ejuke, recently returning from a hamstring injury, has urged Iheanacho to stay focused and keep pushing for success at the Ramón Sánchez Pizjuán Stadium.
Sevilla currently sit 11th in La Liga, four points shy of a UEFA Europa League spot, as the team navigates a challenging season.
For Kelechi Iheanacho, the coming weeks could determine whether he stays to fight for his place or seeks a fresh start elsewhere.
