Super Eagles forward Kelechi Iheanacho has reaffirmed his commitment to the Nigerian national team, insisting that his continued desire to represent the country is driven by his love and passion for football.
Sports247 reports that Iheanacho spoke ahead of Nigeria’s international friendly against Russia, reflecting on his long association with the national team and his determination to continue answering the call whenever he is invited.
The experienced forward explained that his journey with the national team began at a very young age, progressing through the ranks before eventually establishing himself with the senior Super Eagles.
“I have been in the Super Eagles for a long time, starting for the U12 upwards,” Iheanacho said.
According to the former Manchester City forward, his motivation for representing Nigeria goes beyond personal considerations, with his passion for the game remaining the primary reason he continues to respond to national team invitations.
“I am not coming to the national team because of anything but the love for the game and passion,” he stated.
Iheanacho also described representing the Super Eagles as a dream shared by footballers, noting that he has already lived that dream for many years but remains eager to contribute whenever called upon.
“It is the dream of anyone to play in the Super Eagles, and I have lived that dream for a long time,” he added.
The forward further emphasised his willingness to serve the national team regardless of the circumstances, saying he would accept any invitation as long as it comes from Nigeria.
“If it is 5v5 or any call-up from the nation, I will surely obey as long as I receive a call-up. I’m really happy to be here,” Iheanacho declared.
His comments come as the Super Eagles prepare for their friendly against Russia, with head coach Éric Chelle continuing to assess his available options and build depth within the squad.
Iheanacho also spoke about his experience playing outside Nigeria, insisting that football remains fundamentally the same regardless of the country or league in which a player competes.
“Individual as a player, you have a reason to go to any club you are. For me, football is the same everywhere,” he explained.
The Nigerian international also defended the competitiveness of the Turkish league, where he currently plays, stressing that the division should not be underestimated.
“Some are in Turkey, in the division I play, it is a good league, and it is not easy as people think. My teammates can testify,” he said.
As Nigeria prepares for the Russia friendly, Iheanacho’s experience and commitment could provide an important element within Chelle’s squad.
For the veteran forward, however, the motivation remains simple — the honour of representing Nigeria and the enduring passion that has kept him committed to the Super Eagles throughout his career.
