Pranav Nair
Manchester United star Odion Ighalo keen to play in the MLS
Speaking to ESPN (h/t MEN), Manchester United star Odion Ighalo is keen to play in the MLS before he hangs up his boots.
The Nigerian ace is nearing the end of his loan deal at Old Trafford and looks set to leave the club at the end of the month. Signed on loan last January, the 31-year-old got off to an excellent start to life at United.
He has of late seen his stock fall and is behind Anthony Martial and Edinson Cavani in the pecking order. As things stand, his Manchester United dream is coming to an end.
“I have been watching MLS and the league is doing well and I would like to play in the MLS.”
Ole Gunnar Solskjaer has already confirmed that United will not extend Ighalo’s stay. He did however praise the Nigerian for his services to the club.
The striker will return to his parent club Shanghai Shenhua. It is far from the end of his journey, with the United States next on the agenda. Ighalo’s contract in China expires in 2021 and it remains to be seen where he ends up.
The 31-year-old hopes an opportunity will come up that will see him realise his dream. The MLS has been the retirement ground for a number of top stars in the past. Ighalo could very well follow in their footsteps.
“I have to wait for offers and if the opportunity arises, I will take it because the league is doing well and it is a good life and I would love it.”
A hint dropped?
The MLS do have a United connection. David Beckham owns Inter Miami while Gonzalo Higuain manages Atalanta United.
Ighalo namedropped Miami as a rising club. Whether it was a hint at where he would like to end up remains to be seen.
“The David Beckham club [Inter Miami] is growing, so if an opportunity rises why not?”
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A United fan, Ighalo’s move to Old Trafford would have been a dream come true for him. While he may have faded from memory this season, his impact last season cannot be dismissed.
He may not be going out in a blaze of glory. However, no one can accuse him of not giving his all when called upon.
