Petrov Urges Celtic To Look Beyond Iheanacho

Former Celtic midfielder Stiliyan Petrov has advised the club to move on from Kelechi Iheanacho this summer, despite the Nigerian forward playing a crucial role in the Hoops’ dramatic Premiership title triumph.

Iheanacho arrived at Celtic Park on a free transfer last year following his departure from La Liga side Sevilla. The 29-year-old initially faced questions over his fitness and form but gradually won over the support with a series of vital goals during the decisive phase of the season.

His late winners against Dundee, Hibernian, and Motherwell proved instrumental as Celtic mounted a remarkable comeback to snatch the league crown.

Although Iheanacho never fully convinced manager Martin O’Neill of his ability to maintain peak fitness across a full campaign, his impact as a substitute in high-pressure matches was undeniable.

His current one-year contract is due to expire at the end of the season, though the club holds an option to extend it by another 12 months.

However, Petrov believes Celtic should resist that option and instead focus on securing a long-term attacking solution. Speaking on The Scottish Football Social Club, the Bulgarian explained that the club’s ambitions require a striker who can lead the line consistently.

“Sorry, no,” Petrov said when asked if Celtic should keep Iheanacho. “You need a striker who can compete all season, who is fit all season, who is ready, who is mobile.

“Look, he’s done so well. But for what Celtic stands for, they have to go for something different. Something more powerful.

“That’s the reality at a big club, unfortunately. I don’t think Iheanacho is the answer for Celtic going forward.”