Kelechi Iheanacho Explains Why He Turned Down Celtic for Bursaspor
Kelechi Iheanacho has opened up about his choice to snub a fresh contract offer from Celtic in favour of a move to Turkish side Bursaspor. The 29‑year‑old Nigeria international said the club’s long‑term project was the decisive factor.
Ambitious Project Attracts the Striker
Speaking in his first interview after the transfer, Iheanacho described Bursaspor as a “big club” with a proud history, noting their previous Turkish Super Lig triumph. He added:
“When I heard about their project – that they wanted to climb up to the Super Lig and also play in Europe – I said that this is a big project and it’s very good for me to come and be involved and help the team.”
He instructed his agent to leave no stone unturned to secure the deal, emphasizing his personal target of helping Bursaspor earn promotion to the top flight.
Familiar Colours and Celtic’s Reaction
The striker also pointed out the visual similarity between Bursaspor’s dark‑green and white kit and Celtic’s lighter green and white stripes, joking that it felt like déjà vu.
Celtic manager Martin O’Neill acknowledged the transfer did not go as planned, saying he believed a deal was in place before Iheanacho opted for pastures new.
While Turkish media reported a weekly wage of £47,000, Bursaspor president Enes Celik clarified that the striker will earn around £1.2 million per year (approximately £23,000 weekly), insisting the move was motivated by the club’s sporting ambition rather than financial incentives alone.
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