Kelechi Iheanacho is a Nigerian professional footballer who currently plays for EFL Championship club Middlesbrough, on loan from La Liga outfit Sevilla and the Nigeria national team.
Despite his recent struggles on the pitch, Iheanacho, who rose to prominence after his spectacular displays for Nigeria at the 2013 U-17 World Cup, remains one of the African nation’s most talented football exports in Europe.
In this article, Footynaija.com brings you everything you need to know about the former Leicester City attacker.
Biography
Kelechi Promise Iheanacho, fondly referred to as ‘Seniorman Kelz’ was born on October 3, 1996 in the South-Eastern city of Owerri, the capital of Imo state, Nigeria.
Iheanacho began his football journey in the city of his birth, representing Taye academy. He entered the spotlight after impressing for Nigeria in the 2013 U-17 World Cup, catching the attention of a good number of European clubs including Arsenal.
His standout performances at the World Cup earned him a move to Premier League giants Manchester City with the youngster commiting to a contract in October 2014, just after he turned 18.
He spent two seasons at City where he scored 21 goals and registered 7 assists despite starting only 11 games. With reduced playing time his second season, Iheanacho transferred to Leicester City in a £25 million deal.
At Leicester, he built a reputation for scoring in crucial moments and played a key role in their 2021 FA Cup and Community Shield victories.
After the expiration of his contract with the Foxes in June 2024, Iheanacho joined Sevilla for free that summer. However, a torrid start to life in Spain has seen him shipped out on loan to Middlesbrough where he currently plays.
On the international scene, Iheanacho starred for Nigeria at the 2013 U-17 World Cup, winning the Golden Ball and helping the team lift the trophy. He made his senior debut in 2015 and has since scored key goals in major qualifiers and tournaments.
Iheanacho was part of Nigeria’s squads for the 2018 and 2023 AFCON tournaments, notably scoring against Egypt in 2021 and netting the decisive penalty in the 2023 semi-final against South Africa.
Kelechi Iheanacho’s Career Stats
At the time of writing, Iheanacho has amassed 366 appearances for club and country, with a tally of 101 goals and 48 assists to his name. Below is a breakdown of his numbers by club.
Manchester City – 64 apps (21G, 7A)
Leicester City – 232 apps (61G, 33A)
Sevilla – 11 apps (3G, 0A)
Middlesbrough (on loan) – 12 apps (1G, 2A)
Kelechi Iheanacho’s Salary and Net Worth
Iheanacho is currently one of the highest paid Nigerian footballers in Europe. He is on a wage package that pays him €87,000 per week. This brings his annual earnings to a whooping €4.5 million.
According to many sources, Seniorman Kels’ net worth is estimated at around $5 million, earned through football, endorsement deals, and various business ventures both in Nigeria and internationally.
Kelechi Iheanacho’s Family
Iheanacho’s father, Elder James, a former building materials trader, now acts as his main football representative, though official negotiations are handled by a professional agency through him.
Iheanacho is the third of four children—three boys and a girl. His sister “Chibless” is a fashion enthusiast and active on social media.
His elder brother has continued their father’s business and is now a major building materials importer in Southeast Nigeria. There’s speculation around a younger sibling, Chibuike, with unclear details surrounding his birth.
Kelechi Iheanacho’s Wife
Iheanacho is married to long time partner Amarachi Joy. The pair dated for a good number of years before finally tying the knot in 2024. At the time of writing, there is no publicly available information about their union being blessed with a child.
Kelechi Iheanacho’s Latest Transfer News
Iheanacho is currently on loan at Middlesbrough from Sevilla as he looks to revitalize his career. So far, not much progress has been made in that regard despite the former City man showing flashes of immense talent.
Sevilla sporting director Victor Orta, claimed in a recent interview that signing Iheanacho was a mistake. Following those comments, it’s difficult to see a future for the Nigeria international in Seville.
As the summer transfer window approaches, Iheanacho will be desperate to rediscover his form and start catching the fancy of potential suitors.
Kelechi Iheanacho’s FC 25 Ratings
According to Electronic Arts Inc. Kelechi Iheanacho’s base card in EA SPORTS FC 25 carries an overall rating of 74. Standing at 6’1″ (185 cm) and left-footed, he brings a blend of technical skill and physical presence to the forward line.
Key Attributes
Shooting – 74
Shot Power: 77
Finishing: 74
Volleys: 76
Long Shots: 73
Positioning: 76
Penalties: 70