Ex-Celtic star Kelechi Iheanacho namechecks Brendan Rodgers as he pens emotional goodbye to Hoops fans
KELECHI IHEANACHO has penned an emotional goodbye to Celtic fans after choosing Turkey as his next destination.
The Nigerian striker, 29, will not be returning to Parkhead this summer after helping the Hoops lift a domestic double last season.
Martin O’Neill was keen to bring the forward back to Glasgow, but Celtic and Iheanacho’s representatives failed to reach an agreement.
The former Manchester City and Leicester City frontman has instead opted for a surprise move to the Turkish second division with Bursaspor.
Iheanacho has signed a three-year deal with the club, in what is seen as a major transfer coup for the ambitious side aiming for top-flight promotion.
The 29-year-old originally arrived in Glasgow last year as a free transfer after Brendan Rodgers moved to bring his former player to Celtic.
Iheanacho shared a video and picture montage from his “incredible” season in Scotland, thanking supporters for their backing throughout a chaotic campaign.
He also gave a special mention to Rodgers for bringing him to the club, alongside O’Neill and the coaching staff.
Writing on Instagram, he said: “To The Celtic FC – What we achieved last season was truly incredible, I’ll forever be grateful for the opportunity to represent your great football club.
“My thanks to Brendan Rodgers for bringing me to the football club. Thank you to Martin O’Neill and he’s staff, special thanks to my teammates will miss you guys
“To the amazing fans, thank you for your unwavering support. I wish you all the very best for the upcoming season and beyond! Love, Kelechi 💚🍀”
Iheanacho chipped in with nine goals and an assist across 24 appearances for the Hoops.
Several clubs were chasing his signature after his contract with the Scottish champions expired.
Reports claimed he had landed an eye-watering £50,000-a-week deal at Bursaspor — well beyond Celtic’s pay structure — though it has since emerged his actual wage in Turkey is closer to £23,000.
