Super Eagles forward Kelechi Iheanacho has revealed that Bursaspor’s long-term vision and ambitious project were the key reasons behind his decision to join the Turkish club ahead of the 2026/27 season, Sportblits.com reports.
The 29-year-old Nigerian international completed his move to the Turkish side after ending his spell with Scottish champions Celtic, becoming one of Bursaspor’s marquee signings as they prepare for a promotion push in the Turkish First League.
Bursaspor, one of Turkey’s most historic clubs, recently secured promotion from the third tier and have already made it clear that their immediate objective is to return to the Turkish Super League before eventually competing in European competitions.
Speaking to the club’s official media channels after his unveiling, Iheanacho admitted he was immediately attracted by the club’s plans for the future.
“Bursaspor is a big team in Turkey. I heard they won the Turkish Super League before. When I heard the project they have and how they want to go all the way to the Super League and play in Europe as well, I said this is a big project and it’s very good for me to come and be involved and help the team.”
Iheanacho personally pushed for the transfer
The former Manchester City and Leicester City striker disclosed that he instructed his representatives to do everything possible to complete the move because he believed in the club’s ambitions.
“I asked my agent to make sure he did everything possible for me to come to Bursaspor. There’s a big project and I hope I’m going to be part of it and help the team.”
His decision signals a fresh chapter in a career that has taken him across England, Spain, Scotland, and now Turkey.
Familiar with Bursaspor’s Nigerian connection
Although Iheanacho revealed he did not seek advice before signing, he was already aware of Bursaspor’s history with Nigerian footballers.
The Super Eagles forward mentioned former Nigeria internationals Shehu Abdullahi and Mikel Agu among the players who previously represented the club.
“I didn’t really speak to anyone before joining, but I know Nigerian players like Shehu Abdullahi and Mikel Agu have played here before. I know it’s a fantastic club with a great history.”
The presence of previous Nigerian stars at the club further strengthened his confidence that Bursaspor would provide the right environment to continue his career.
Winning promotion is the priority
Despite arriving with an impressive goalscoring reputation, Iheanacho insists his focus is not on personal milestones but on helping the club achieve promotion.
The Nigerian international described himself as a highly competitive player who expects the highest standards from both himself and his teammates.
“I’m very competitive. I demand a lot from my teammates, and I want them to demand the same from me. I’m a team player and I like winning every game.”
He added that while individual goals remain important, the club’s collective ambitions come first.
“Everybody has personal targets, but I prefer taking it one game at a time. Our main objective is promotion to the Turkish Super League. That’s more important than individual achievements.”
Kelechi Iheanacho career statistics
Iheanacho arrives in Turkey with a wealth of experience gained across Europe’s top competitions.
Career Profile
- Age: 29
- Position: Centre-forward
- Nationality: Nigeria
- Senior Nigeria Caps: 60+ appearances
- Premier League Goals: 40+
- Premier League Assists: 25+
- Major Honours:
- Premier League
- FA Cup
- Community Shield
- EFL Cup
- Scottish Premiership
Since making his breakthrough at Manchester City, Iheanacho has also represented Leicester City, Sevilla, Middlesbrough, and Celtic, establishing himself as one of Nigeria’s most experienced attacking players.
His creativity, intelligent movement, finishing ability, and versatility across the front line are expected to play a significant role in Bursaspor’s promotion campaign.
Kelechi Iheanacho has arrived in Turkey to complete his move to Bursaspor.
— Sportblits (@sportblitsX) July 22, 2026
The Super Eagles striker was welcomed by club president Enes Çelik and the management team. Official announcement expected soon. pic.twitter.com/U7NNNDMHn7
Can Iheanacho lead Bursaspor back to the Turkish Super League?
Bursaspor supporters will be hoping Iheanacho’s arrival provides the attacking quality needed to secure an immediate return to Turkey’s top flight.
The club’s management has already shown serious intent in the transfer market, and the signing of a player with Premier League and UEFA competition experience underlines their ambition.
If Iheanacho can remain fit and rediscover the form that made him one of Nigeria’s most reliable forwards, he could become one of the standout performers in the Turkish First League this season.
For both the striker and Bursaspor, success will ultimately be measured by one objective—earning promotion back to the Turkish Super League.
