Manchester City youngster, Kelechi Iheanacho, has finally opened up on why he could be absent from Nigeria’s squad to this summer’s Rio Olympics.
The 19-year-old accepted he will not fulfil his wish to represent the 1996 winners at the quadrennial event as he instead prepares to impress new Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola.
Iheanacho was included in Samson Siasia’s 35-man provisional squad for the Games last month, along with fellow Premier League players Odion Ighalo, Alex Iwobi and John Obi Mikel.
However, with the tournament beginning on August 3, the left footed forward would miss City’s pre-season preparations in Asia and the first few weeks of new boss Guardiola’s reign were he to head to Rio with his international colleagues.
Furthermore, were Nigeria to progress beyond the group stage, Iheanacho would be absent for the opening of the new Premier League season so, while the teenager was prepared to answer his country’s call, he is understanding of why City are keen to keep him in their fold.
Speaking at a fans event at City’s Academy – part of the grand unveiling of Guardiola on Sunday – the 19-year-old seemed to harbour hopes of a change of heart from his club. However, their stance remains unchanged.
“It’s up to the club and country to decide what is going to happen,” he said.
“If your country wants you to play, you really want to go and play as well. (But) It’s not my intention to decide.”
Having scored 14 times last term, the hope for Iheanacho will be that he can continue his progress under Guardiola’s guidance.
“I think everyone knows about him,” the Nigerian added.
“He’s a great manager. He’s coached great teams – Barcelona, Bayern Munich. He’s done great for all the teams, I think.
“I watched Barcelona. He’s a great manager; they played really well, were a great team and won trophies.
“He has a good record working with young players I think and I don’t think this will be an exception. He’s going to prepare the young players and they’re going to improve.”
