AFCON 2025
Nigerian international Kelechi Iheanacho has broken his silence on his decision to leave Scottish champions Celtic and join Turkish side Bursaspor, insisting that the club’s ambitious long-term vision was the key factor behind the move.
The Super Eagles forward completed a surprise transfer to the Turkish second-tier outfit last week despite helping Celtic secure a domestic double during the 2025/26 campaign.
His departure sparked speculation in Scotland, particularly after Celtic manager Martin O’Neill disclosed that he had expected Iheanacho to remain at the club, believing an agreement had been reached before negotiations unexpectedly broke down.
However, speaking on Bursaspor’s official YouTube channel, the 29-year-old explained that the club’s plans to return to the Turkish Super Lig and compete in European competitions convinced him to embrace a new challenge.
“I’m very happy to come to Bursaspor. I thank the president for making this possible, with the help of my agent as well. I’m really excited to start here,” Iheanacho said.
The former Manchester City and Leicester City striker revealed that he was already familiar with Bursaspor’s rich history, including their remarkable Turkish Super Lig triumph in 2010.
“Bursaspor is a big club in Turkey and I had heard that they had previously won the Turkish Super Lig,” he said.
“When I heard about their project, that they wanted to climb up to the Super Lig and also play in Europe, I said this is a big project and it’s very good for me to come and be involved and help the team.”
Iheanacho disclosed that he was eager to be part of the project and instructed his representatives to ensure the move materialised.
“So I asked my agent to make sure he does everything possible to make sure I come to Bursaspor. This is a big project and I hope I will be a part of it and help the team achieve this big project,” he added.
Despite arriving as one of the biggest names in Turkey’s second division, Iheanacho stressed that promotion to the Super Lig remains his primary objective rather than personal achievements.
“We know what we want as a team. Collectively as a team, hopefully we achieve promotion, that is our main target before the individual target of a player,” he said.
“My target is for us to go to the Super Lig.”
The Nigerian forward also expressed appreciation to Bursaspor supporters, whose enthusiasm and encouragement played a role in his decision to join the club.
“The fans are really positive and energetic. I thank them a lot for all their support since I’ve signed,” Iheanacho said.
“They always commented on my posts asking me to come to Bursaspor. Finally, I’m here. They made it possible, so they are part of it. Hopefully we will enjoy winning together and enjoy going to the Super Lig together.”
Iheanacho’s arrival is expected to boost Bursaspor’s promotion ambitions as the club seeks a return to the Turkish top flight and a revival of its status among the country’s leading teams.
