No Decision Yet On Iheanacho’s Celtic Future, Says O’Neill

Celtic interim manager Martin O’Neill has revealed that the club has not yet made a final determination regarding the future of Nigerian forward Kelechi Iheanacho, despite the striker’s timely return to form and fitness.

Iheanacho, 29, arrived at the Hoops on a free transfer last summer following his release from Spanish side Sevilla. However, his maiden season in Glasgow has been plagued by recurring injuries, casting significant doubt on whether the former Manchester City man will see out the campaign at Celtic Park.

With the Scottish Premiership title race entering its critical final phase, Iheanacho’s resurgence could not have come at a more opportune moment.

The Nigerian international made a decisive impact on Sunday, coming off the bench to net the winning goal in Celtic’s hard-fought 2-1 victory over Hibernian at Easter Road.

That strike marked his seventh goal of the season for the league leaders – a modest tally by his standards, but one that underscores his growing influence as he regains match sharpness.

Speaking in the aftermath of the dramatic win in Edinburgh, O’Neill was cautious when pressed about the player’s long-term future at the club. While acknowledging Iheanacho’s recent contributions, the interim boss insisted that discussions over a potential exit or extension remain firmly on hold.

“That’s a conversation for another day,” O’Neill told reporters. “Right now, his fitness is the most important thing. He has to keep proving that he’s fit on the field. Everything else comes second.”

The 29-year-old’s injury troubles earlier in the season had fueled speculation that Celtic might look to part ways with the striker during the upcoming transfer window. However, his match-winning display against Hibernian – a game in which Celtic had to rally from behind has offered a timely reminder of his predatory instincts in front of goal.

With the Hoops pushing hard to successfully defend their Premiership crown, O’Neill will likely lean on Iheanacho’s experience and striking prowess in the weeks ahead. Whether that translates into a longer-term stay at Celtic Park remains, for now, an open question.

“Kelechi knows what he needs to do,” O’Neill added. “Keep playing, keep scoring, keep showing he can handle the demands of this league. The rest will take care of itself.”