Kelechi Iheanacho breaks silence on his future after Celtic’s Scottish Cup triumph

When Kelechi Iheanacho first arrived at Celtic F.C., there were understandable doubts among sections of the support. It was never really about questioning the Nigerian forward’s talent or pedigree, but more a reflection of the frustration surrounding the club’s difficult summer.

Celtic had endured a disappointing transfer window, suffered another painful early exit from the Champions League, and many supporters felt the club had failed to properly invest in attacking reinforcements. Against that backdrop, Iheanacho’s arrival was met with cautious optimism rather than widespread excitement.

Fast forward to now, however, and the mood around the striker has shifted dramatically.

Following Celtic’s Scottish Cup final victory over Dunfermline Athletic F.C. at Hampden, there is growing support among fans for Iheanacho to remain in Glasgow beyond this season. The striker came off the bench to make an impact in the final, even getting himself on the scoresheet as Celtic secured another major honour.

Perhaps most encouraging for supporters is that Iheanacho himself appears eager to continue his Celtic journey.

Speaking after the final whistle amid celebrations on the Hampden pitch, the 29-year-old made it clear that he would welcome the opportunity to stay at the club next season.

Asked about his future, Iheanacho admitted that he hopes he will still be wearing green and white when the new campaign begins.

“I hope so,” he said when asked if he sees himself staying at Celtic. “I hope that at the start of next season, I am still a Celtic player. But we’ll leave that for everyone at the club to sort out.”

Winning the Scottish Cup marked another major milestone for Iheanacho during what he described as a memorable — if at times chaotic — first season in Scotland.

Despite moments of inconsistency and criticism aimed at the team throughout the campaign, Celtic still managed to secure a domestic double, once again adding silverware to the trophy cabinet.

For Iheanacho, it represented his first taste of success in Celtic colours, something he admitted left him feeling proud and grateful.

Reflecting on the season while speaking to Premier Sports, the former Premier League attacker described the campaign as “crazy” but ultimately rewarding.

“It feels really good,” Iheanacho explained. “It’s my first Scottish Cup and I’m really happy. It has been a crazy season, but I’m delighted.”

He also highlighted how significant the achievement was for everyone connected to the club, praising the fans and suggesting the season would be remembered fondly despite its challenges.

“This is such a proud moment for the club, the supporters and everyone who has been part of this journey,” he said. “I think this season will go down in the club’s history and people will remember it. We’re just happy celebrating with the fans.”

The striker also reflected on how quickly things have changed since arriving in Glasgow, pointing out that in less than a year at Celtic he has already collected two winners’ medals.

“It’s been crazy, to be honest,” Iheanacho added. “I’ve been here ten months and already won two trophies. I’m happy, my family is happy, my friends are happy — everyone is excited.”

However, while Iheanacho’s desire to stay is clear, there are still important questions for Celtic to answer.

The biggest concern surrounding his future revolves around fitness and availability. Injuries have disrupted his campaign, and the forward has struggled to consistently complete full matches throughout the season.

Part of that can be explained by circumstance. Iheanacho arrived without a proper pre-season after his contract with Sevilla FC came to an end, leaving him short of match sharpness when he joined Celtic.

Still, fitness remains the key issue decision-makers will weigh up as discussions continue over whether the striker remains at Celtic Park or moves on after only one season.