Kelechi Promise Iheanacho, born on October 3, 1996, in Owerri, Imo State, Nigeria, is a professional footballer who plays as a striker for Sevilla FC in Spain and the Nigeria national team. He began his career with Manchester City, later moving to Leicester City, and has been recognized for his goal-scoring abilities and contributions to both club and country.
Early Life and Education
Growing up in Owerri, Iheanacho displayed a keen interest in football from a young age. He often found himself sneaking into viewing centers to watch Premier League matches, as his family couldn’t afford pay television subscriptions. His father, James Iheanacho, prioritized education and was initially hesitant about his son’s passion for football. Despite this, Kelechi balanced his academic pursuits with his love for the sport, often facing disciplinary measures from his father to maintain focus on his studies.
He began his football journey with Taye Academy in Owerri, where his exceptional talent quickly became evident. His performances at the youth level caught the attention of international scouts, setting the stage for his future professional career.
Personal Life and Family
Iheanacho hails from the Igbo ethnic group in Nigeria and is a devout Christian. His father, James Iheanacho, played a significant role in his upbringing, emphasizing the importance of education alongside sports. Details about his mother are scarce, as she has chosen to maintain a low profile. Kelechi often credits his family for instilling discipline and supporting his football aspirations, despite initial reservations.
Off the pitch, Iheanacho is known for his humble demeanor and strong faith. He often expresses gratitude to God for his successes and is involved in various charitable activities, aiming to give back to his community in Nigeria.
Detailed Bio Table
| Attribute | Details |
|---|---|
| Full Name | Kelechi Promise Iheanacho |
| Date of Birth | October 3, 1996 |
| Place of Birth | Owerri, Imo State, Nigeria |
| Height | 1.85 meters (6 feet 1 inch) |
| Parents’ Names | James Iheanacho (father); mother’s name not publicly disclosed |
| Position | Striker |
| Current Club | Sevilla FC |
| Jersey Number | 9 |
| Youth Career | Taye Academy (2011–2014), Manchester City Youth (2014–2015) |
| Senior Career | Manchester City (2015–2017), Leicester City (2017–2024), Sevilla FC (2024–present) |
| National Team | Nigeria U17, U20, and Senior Team |
| Net Worth (as of 2025) | Estimated at $12 million |
Career
Iheanacho’s professional career began when he joined Manchester City’s youth setup in 2014, following his standout performances at the FIFA U-17 World Cup. He was promoted to the senior team in the 2015–16 season, making a significant impact by scoring 12 goals in 46 appearances over two seasons. His notable achievements with Manchester City include winning the Football League Cup.
In August 2017, he transferred to Leicester City for a reported £25 million fee, marking the largest transfer amount for a Nigerian player at that time. During his tenure with Leicester, Iheanacho was instrumental in the club’s 2020–21 FA Cup success, scoring crucial goals that led to their first FA Cup victory. He also netted the winning goal in the 2021 FA Community Shield against his former club, Manchester City.
In July 2024, after his contract with Leicester City expired, Iheanacho joined Sevilla FC on a free transfer. As of December 2024, he has made nine appearances for the Spanish club, contributing his experience and skills to their attacking lineup.
Internationally, Iheanacho has been a valuable asset to the Nigeria national team. He was part of the squad for the 2018 FIFA World Cup and played in the 2021 and 2023 Africa Cup of Nations, where Nigeria finished as runners-up in the latter tournament. His international career highlights his consistent performance and importance to Nigerian football.
Kelechi Iheanacho’s journey from a young boy in Owerri to an international football star exemplifies determination, talent, and the support of a strong family foundation. His story continues to inspire many aspiring footballers in Nigeria and around the world.
Career Overview Table
| Year | Club/National Team | Appearances | Goals | Notable Achievements |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| 2011–2014 | Taye Academy (Youth) | N/A | N/A | Discovered as a top Nigerian talent |
| 2014–2015 | Manchester City U18 | N/A | N/A | Developed in City’s youth system |
| 2015–2017 | Manchester City | 46 | 12 | FA Cup Hat-trick vs Aston Villa |
| 2017–2024 | Leicester City | 206 | 55 | FA Cup Winner (2021), Community Shield Winner (2021) |
| 2024–Present | Sevilla FC | 9+ | 2+ | New signing, adapting to La Liga |
| 2013 | Nigeria U17 | 7 | 6 | FIFA U-17 World Cup Champion & Golden Ball Winner |
| 2015 | Nigeria U20 | 7 | 4 | Played at U20 World Cup |
| 2015–Present | Nigeria Senior Team | 50+ | 15+ | 2021 AFCON key player, 2023 AFCON Finalist |
Latest News
As of February 1, 2025, reports indicate that Celtic FC has launched a bid to sign Kelechi Iheanacho from Sevilla FC. The proposed deal is an initial six-month loan with an option to buy, potentially reuniting Iheanacho with his former Leicester City manager, Brendan Rodgers. This move comes as Celtic seeks to replace Japanese striker Kyogo, who recently transferred to Rennes.
Physical Appearance
Standing at 1.85 meters (6 feet 1 inch), Iheanacho has an athletic build, which complements his role as a striker. His physical presence, combined with his agility and technical skills, makes him a formidable forward. He is known for his pace, sharp movements, and ability to find spaces within defensive lines, contributing to his effectiveness in front of goal.
Social Media Accounts
| Platform | Username/Handle | Official Link |
|---|---|---|
| @kelechi72 | https://www.instagram.com/kelechi72 | |
| @67Kelechi | https://twitter.com/67Kelechi | |
| Kelechi Iheanacho | https://www.facebook.com/KelechiIheanacho |
Net Worth as of 2025
As of 2025, Kelechi Iheanacho’s net worth is estimated to be around $12 million. This valuation is attributed to his professional contracts with top-tier football clubs, endorsement deals, and performance-related bonuses. His significant transfer to Leicester City in 2017 for £25 million and subsequent move to Sevilla FC have contributed to his financial standing.
Kelechi Iheanacho’s journey from a young talent in Nigeria to an international football star underscores his dedication, skill, and impact on the sport. His contributions at both club and national levels continue to make him a prominent figure in the football world.
FAQS
Where was Kelechi Iheanacho born?
Kelechi Iheanacho was born in Owerri, Imo State, Nigeria, on October 3, 1996.
2. What position does Kelechi Iheanacho play?
He plays as a striker, known for his goal-scoring abilities, pace, and technical skills on the field.
3. Which clubs has Kelechi Iheanacho played for?
Iheanacho has played for several top clubs, including Manchester City (2015–2017), Leicester City (2017–2024), and currently, Sevilla FC (2024–present).
4. Has Kelechi Iheanacho won any major trophies?
Yes, Kelechi Iheanacho has won the FA Cup with Leicester City in 2021 and the Community Shield in the same year. He also played a crucial role in Nigeria’s 2013 FIFA U-17 World Cup victory.
5. What is Kelechi Iheanacho’s net worth?
As of 2025, Kelechi Iheanacho’s net worth is estimated at approximately $12 million, earned through his football contracts, endorsements, and performance-related bonuses.
6. Is Kelechi Iheanacho married?
Details regarding Kelechi Iheanacho’s personal life, particularly his marital status, are relatively private, with little public information available. However, he is known to keep a low profile regarding his family and romantic life.
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