Former Super Eagles and Al Hilal striker – Odion Jude Ighalo, has opted to leave the door to the Super Eagles team open after he confirmed his retirement announcement came too soon.
We caught up Ighalo’s interview with Elegbte TV, where the 34-year-old shared his thoughts with host Sabastine Emmanuel, on the national team, the domestic league, and the differences between the Chinese and Saudi Leagues.
“I do not think about the national team conversations for now,” Ighalo said when quizzed about his retirement from the Super Eagles.
“You never can say ‘never’ because the last time I announced my retirement, it felt too soon.
“But now, I do not have a lot to say other than continue my club football and see how life goes.”
This will ring good news to Nigerian football fans who have longed for a quality, experienced, and lethal striker, qualities Ighalo has in abundance.
Ighalo’s national team stint wasn’t without regrets as the Edo man highlighted a couple of unpleasant memories.
“The only downtime I remember was the game against Argentina at the 2018 World Cup in Russia, where I missed a big chance, and the whole of Nigeria wanted to bury me alive.
“Also, for the last World Cup in Qatar which Nigeria did not qualify for, I believed we had the tools and potential to qualify.
“We were playing at home (to Ghana) which was an advantage to us, and the stadium was crowded with fans. But due to some unforeseen circumstances and selfish reasons, the World Cup ticket was lost, but that is gone and we have to look forward.”
With the AFCON coming in January 2024, and the World Cup qualifiers following suit, it is left to be seen if Jose Peseiro or any other incoming coach will consider a return for Ighalo to the Super Eagles squad.
