Former Nigeria Super Eagles striker Odion Ighalo has confirmed that his stint with Manchester United has finally ended after taking to social media to announce his departure from the club. The announcement comes just five days to the expiration of his loan deal with the Red Devils since joining from Chinese outfit Shanghai Shenua.
Ighalo swapped China for England when he sealed a loan transfer to Old Trafford which was an initial five-month contract. He joined Olé Gunnar Solksjær’s side last January and saw his deal extended after putting up some impressive displays for the Red Devils. The coronavirus crisis also played a role in seeing his stay in the Red side of Manchester extended – something he was very pleased with.
The Nigerian slid down the pecking order in the attack department following the arrival of Uruguayan striker EdinsonCavani who joined United on a free transfer after leaving French club Paris Saint-Germain. Cavani’s arrival to the United setup saw Ighalo spend most part of his last days at the club on the bench and was restricted to just four appearances this season. He last played for the Premier League giants in the Champions League clash against Cavani’s former employers which was played over two months ago.
The former Watford striker featured 23 times for Manchester United and scored 5 goals. It is believed that he could have had more impact on the team if he had a better starting record, as most of his appearances came as a result of being brought on in the closing stages of some games.
A couple of the Red Devils’ players have paid tribute to the departing forward after he took to Instagram and Twitter to announce his exit. The likes of Jesse Lingard, Bruno Fernandes, David de Gea, Donny van de Beek, amongst others, all bade him farewell under his post.