Celtic captain Callum McGregor has hailed the immediate impact of Kelechi Iheanacho at the club, describing the Super Eagles star’s striking instinct as proof of his pedigree.
Iheanacho joined Celtic on a free transfer last month after the summer transfer window closed, a move many saw as a smart piece of late business by the Scottish champions.
McGregor impressed by Iheanacho’s first strike
The 27-year-old forward has wasted no time making his mark, scoring twice and registering one assist in his first four appearances.
He registered a goal against Kilmarnock and Crvena Zvezda, while providing a key goal in the away win at Partick Thistle, showing glimpses of the finishing touch that once made him one of the most talked-about young strikers in England.
Speaking to the Glasgow Times, McGregor admitted he knew almost immediately that Celtic had signed a top-quality forward.
“The first time I saw him, you can just tell by the way someone hits the ball—you think, ‘Right, he can play,’” said the Celtic skipper.
“He’s got a big pedigree. He’s played at big clubs and obviously worked under the manager at Leicester as well. You can see he’s a good player.”
For McGregor, it was not just Iheanacho’s technical quality that stood out but also his hunger to prove himself.
“The reason we’ve got him is probably because he’s lacked a bit of game time and just needs to get up to speed,” McGregor added.
“The good thing is, he’s come in, and his attitude’s been amazing.”
Smart timing of the transfer
McGregor also praised the club’s recruitment strategy, noting that bringing in a proven striker like Iheanacho at the right moment can make a huge difference.
“Good business comes in many forms.
You don’t always need to pay big money for good players — it’s about getting them at the right time and getting them hungry.
There are so many factors involved when you sign players. You need them at the right moment.”
Celtic’s ability to secure Iheanacho on a free transfer after his Leicester stint appears to be paying off.
The Nigerian forward has brought experience, a clinical edge, and a fresh spark to a team aiming to defend their Scottish Premiership title and make an impression in Europe.
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