In 2013, a teenager from Nigeria lit up the U-17 World Cup, scoring goals and winning the best player award as the Golden Eaglets lifted the trophy. Kelechi Iheanacho went on to play in the Premier League and become a hero at Leicester City.
Early life
Kelechi Promise Iheanacho was born on 3 October 1996. He grew up playing football in Nigeria, where his talent as a young striker quickly became clear to coaches.
U-17 World Cup
At the 2013 FIFA U-17 World Cup, Iheanacho was named the tournament’s best player and finished second in the scoring charts as Nigeria won a record fourth title.
Manchester City
After the tournament, he joined Manchester City. He made his Premier League debut as a young striker and impressed with his finishing and movement.
Leicester City
In 2017, he moved to Leicester City for a reported £25 million, at the time the largest fee paid for a Nigerian player.
FA Cup 2021
Iheanacho was instrumental in Leicester’s 2020-21 FA Cup run, scoring a joint-high four goals as the club won the trophy for the first time in its history.
Community Shield
He then scored the only goal from the penalty spot as Leicester won the 2021 Community Shield.
Super Eagles
He has represented Nigeria at senior level, including at the Africa Cup of Nations, and has been a regular in the Super Eagles squad.
Style
Iheanacho is known for intelligent movement, calm finishing and the ability to link play with teammates, rather than pure speed or power.
Later career
After leaving Leicester, he played in Spain and Turkey, continuing his career abroad.
A leader for young strikers
Nigerian youth players often cite Iheanacho’s route, from a world youth title to the Premier League, as proof that the Golden Eaglets can be a launchpad for a senior career.
Leicester’s favourite
His goals in cup competitions made him a fan favourite at the King Power Stadium, where supporters sang his name during the club’s historic 2021 run.
Playing style change
Over time, he adapted from an out-and-out striker into a player who dropped deeper, creating chances for others as well as scoring.
A Golden Eaglet’s journey
Many youth stars fade. Iheanacho turned a teenage tournament into a long career at the top level, and Leicester fans will never forget his role in their greatest cup run.
