Odion Ighalo

Date of Birth: June 16, 1989

Zodiac Sign: Gemini

Biography

Odion Jude Ighalo is a professional footballer from Nigeria, widely recognized for his skills as a striker. Born in Lagos, Nigeria, Ighalo began his professional career with Nigerian clubs Prime and Julius Berger before moving to Europe to join Norwegian club Lyn in 2007. His talent soon caught the eye of Italian club Udinese, where he played from 2008 to 2014, with several loan spells in between, including at Granada and Watford. Ighalo’s career took a significant turn when he joined Watford permanently in 2014. His impressive performance in the English Premier League, where he scored 20 goals in the 2014-2015 season, earned him widespread acclaim. In 2017, he transferred to the Chinese Super League club Changchun Yatai, and later to Shanghai Shenhua. In January 2020, Ighalo made headlines by joining Manchester United on a loan deal, becoming the first Nigerian player to play for the club. His tenure at United saw him scoring crucial goals in the FA Cup and the UEFA Europa League. After his stint in England, he returned to Shanghai Shenhua before moving to Saudi Arabian club Al-Shabab and later to Al Hilal SFC. Internationally, Ighalo has been an essential part of the Nigerian national team, representing his country in multiple Africa Cup of Nations tournaments and the 2018 FIFA World Cup. He has also been the top scorer in the 2019 Africa Cup of Nations, helping Nigeria secure a third-place finish.

5 Interesting Facts about Odion Ighalo

1. Ighalo was the top scorer in the 2019 Africa Cup of Nations with five goals.

2. He is known for his charitable work, having founded the Ighalo Orphanage Home in Lagos.

3. Ighalo was the first Nigerian player to sign for Manchester United.

4. He has played in five different countries: Nigeria, Norway, Italy, Spain, England, China, and Saudi Arabia.

5. Ighalo has a unique goal celebration where he points to the sky, dedicating his goals to his late father.

5 Most Interesting Quotes from Odion Ighalo

1. “I always dreamed of playing for Manchester United, and it was a dream come true.”

2. “Football is not just a game for me; it’s a way to make a difference.”

3. “I dedicate every goal to my late father; he’s always with me in spirit.”

4. “Playing for my country is the highest honor, and I give my all every time I wear the Nigerian jersey.”

5. “Hard work, faith, and perseverance are the keys to success.”

Highest Net Worth Achieved

Highest net worth achieved: Approximately $20 million

Children

Odion Ighalo has three children: two sons and a daughter. He often shares moments with his children on social media, highlighting his role as a dedicated father.