Kelechi Iheanacho has rejoined Sevilla’s pre-season camp in Andalusia amid swirling uncertainty over whether he still features in the club’s long-term plans under newly appointed head coach, Matías Almeyda.
The Nigerian forward, who turned 28 earlier this year, signed with Sevilla on a free transfer in July 2024 after leaving Leicester City. Despite high hopes upon arrival, he failed to score in any of his nine LaLiga appearances and was sent on loan to Middlesbrough during the January transfer window.
During his short spell in England’s second division, Iheanacho managed just one goal and two assists in 15 league matches. However, his early season form at Sevilla did see him score twice in the Copa del Rey, hinting at flashes of his well-known finishing ability.
His return coincides with a managerial shake-up at Sevilla, with former AEK Athens boss Almeyda replacing Quique Sánchez Flores at the close of the 2024/2025 season. Almeyda, known for revitalizing teams with aggressive pressing and dynamic attacking structures, now faces a decision on whether to integrate Iheanacho into his plans or offload him before the close of the transfer window.
Iheanacho still has two years left on his contract, and with Sevilla reportedly exploring moves for new attacking options, his position is anything but secure. Sources within the club say Almeyda will use the pre-season friendlies to assess Iheanacho’s fitness, form, and attitude before making a final call.
The former Manchester City academy graduate arrived in Spain with a wealth of experience and was expected to offer firepower, but fans have been left underwhelmed. However, under a new regime and system, the Nigerian international might still have a chance to turn things around.
Transfer speculations continue to link him with potential exits, including interest from clubs in Belgium, Turkey, and MLS. For now, the next few weeks at Sevilla’s training base could decide whether Iheanacho’s Spanish journey continues or comes to a premature end.
