Celtic Stall Decision on Kelechi Iheanacho’s Future After Match-Winning Return

Celtic FC have not yet decided on the long-term future of Nigerian forward Kelechi Iheanacho, as the striker begins to rediscover his form after a frustrating spell with injuries.

Interim head coach Martin O’Neill says the club is prioritising the player’s fitness rather than rushing into contract discussions, despite his growing impact on the pitch in recent weeks.

Iheanacho, who arrived at Celtic on a free transfer after leaving Spanish side Sevilla, has endured a stop-start campaign at Celtic Park, with fitness setbacks limiting his consistency and game time.

But the forward delivered a timely reminder of his quality on Sunday, coming off the bench to score the decisive goal in Celtic’s 2-1 win over Hibernian at Easter Road—a result that keeps the club firmly in control of their title ambitions.

So far this season, the 29-year-old has netted seven goals for the Scottish Premiership champions, a return that underlines his value when fully fit.

O’Neill stressed that the focus remains on the player’s physical condition, suggesting that contract or future talks will only come later once consistency is established.

He added that Iheanacho must continue to prove his fitness through performances on the pitch, especially after a difficult period marked by injuries and limited starts.

For now, Celtic’s stance is clear: form and fitness come first, while decisions about the striker’s future will be addressed later in the season as the club assesses its squad planning for the next campaign.