- TheRadar highlights the career of the only Super Eagles player to have played for Manchester United
- We take an extensive look into how Ighalo made a notable impact during his time at Manchester United
- While his career had a few ups and downs, he is remembered for both his on-field performances and personal stories
Super Eagles legend Odion Jude Ighalo’s story is one for the history books, a journey that took him from the streets of Lagos to the iconic pitch of Old Trafford.
As the only Nigerian to ever play for Manchester United, Ighalo’s career is proof of where passion and unparalleled dedication to the game can take you. From humble beginnings at Nigerian clubs Prime FC and Julius Berger to becoming a household name in Europe and beyond, Ighalo’s rise was nothing short of remarkable.
His time at Manchester United, though brief, although short captured the hearts of fans and fulfilled a lifelong dream for the prolific forward. This is the inspiring journey of the man who broke barriers and left a legacy as Nigeria’s lone representative at one of the world’s most celebrated football clubs.
This article explores the stories of the only Nigerian footballer, Odion Jude Ighalo who donned the Manchester United shirt.
Facts about Ighalo, only Nigerian to play for Man United
TheRadar has compiled in much detail some interesting facts about the only Super Eagles player to have played at Old Trafford - Odion Ighalo.
Odion Jude Ighalo, a name synonymous with Nigerian football excellence, etched his name into history as the only Nigerian to play for the legendary Manchester United. From humble beginnings in Lagos to the grandeur of Old Trafford.
Born in Edo state but raised in Lagos, Ighalo began his football journey with local clubs Prime FC and Julius Berger. His talent quickly caught the eye of European scouts, leading to a move to Norwegian side Lyn in 2007. The striker's relentless drive earned him a transfer to Italian club Udinese just a year later.
While at Udinese, Ighalo spent much of his time on loan, particularly at Spanish side Granada, where he became a fan favourite for his technical ability and knack for scoring crucial goals.
Ighalo's defining moment came in 2014 when he joined Watford in the English Championship. He played an integral role in Watford’s promotion to the Premier League during the 2014–15 season, making him one of Africa's finest forwards. His success in England caught the attention of Chinese Super League sides, and in January 2017, he moved to Changchun Yatai for a reported £20 million before joining Shanghai Shenhua.
The move that fulfilled his lifelong dream came in January 2020 when Ighalo signed on loan with Manchester United. At 30 years old, he became the first Nigerian and seventh African to don the iconic red jersey. Despite taking a pay cut to join the club he supported as a boy, Ighalo described the opportunity as a “dream come true.”
Donning the No. 25 jersey, previously worn by South African Quinton Fortune, Ighalo made an instant impact. His first goal for United came during a Europa League clash against Club Brugge, followed by a stunning brace in the FA Cup against Derby County. His acrobatic half-volley against LASK in the Europa League earned him the club’s Goal of the Month for March 2020.
Though his time at United was brief, Ighalo’s impact was significant. He extended his loan through January 2021 but departed shortly after. Today, Ighalo plays for Saudi Pro League side Al-Wehda, continuing to display his brilliance.
From Nigeria’s streets to the Theatre of Dreams, Odion Ighalo remains a trailblazer for African football, inspiring younger footballers with his journey.
Taye Taiwo, Taribo West and other Super Eagles stars to have played for AC Milan
Previously, TheRadar compiled interesting facts about Nigerian internationals, active or retired, who played for Italian club, AC Milan, in detail.
From Taribo West's unique hairstyle and robust defending to Taye Taiwo's blistering left-foot strikes, all the way to Samuel Chukwueze's electric wing play, there’s so much history between Nigeria and AC Milan.
