Kelechi Iheanacho: 3 reasons Bursaspor are already getting their money’s worth

Bursaspor appear to have struck gold with Kelechi Iheanacho, the Super Eagles forward they got for free in the summer.

The Turkish second-tier club won the race for Iheanacho’s signature ahead of several interested clubs, including Scottish Premiership champions Celtic.

The 2023 FIFA U17 World Cup Golden Ball winner joined the Turkish second-tier club as a free agent in July 2026 after contract talks with Celtic broke down.

Iheanacho scored nine goals in 24 appearances across all competitions last season, helping the Scottish giants win a domestic double after arriving in September 2025.

However, his performances in Turkey suggest Bursaspor could be getting an even better version of the former Leicester City forward.

Here are three reasons the Green Crocodiles are already benefiting from their summer signing.

1. Kelechi Iheanacho is delivering the goals they wanted

Bursaspor signed Kelechi Iheanacho to strengthen their attack, and the 29-year-old has wasted little time justifying that decision.

The Super Eagles forward has scored 11 goals and provided two assists, establishing himself as a key figure in the club’s attacking setup.

Head coach Mustafa Er admitted that Bursaspor worked hard to secure the striker’s signature and expressed satisfaction with his contribution.

“We transferred Iheanacho so that he would score goals. We worked very hard for that transfer,” Er told reporters on Friday.

2. His consistency is giving Bursaspor a major boost

Iheanacho’s scoring run has been another encouraging sign for the Turkish club.

His ability to find the net consistently offers Bursaspor a reliable attacking threat, while his experience at the highest level gives the team an important advantage.

Er believes the squad’s improving team spirit has also helped players become more productive.

🚨🇳🇬 GOAL! Kelechi Iheanacho with a sublime strike from outside the box. Wow! 🤩 0-1! pic.twitter.com/VL0JXbOkuE

— GNB (@GHNaijaBallers) October 6, 2026

3. He carried his club form onto the international stage

Iheanacho showed his resurgence is no fluke by opening the scoring in Nigeria’s entertaining 3-3 draw against Russia on October 6.

It was his first Super Eagles goal in three years and one that reinforces the impression that Bursaspor have signed a forward rediscovering his confidence.

With his goals flowing and his influence growing, the Turkish club have good reason to feel their hard work in securing his signature is paying off.