Former Granada forward Odion Ighalo has revealed why he turned down an approach from Barcelona when the club came knocking in search of backup for Luis Suarez.
The Nigeria international says he wasn’t comfortable about being recruited as a substitute, and wanted to be guaranteed playing time, leaving Barcelona to sign Kevin-Prince Boateng.
“My agent spoke to me about a loan interest from Barcelona. The club wanted a striker with La Liga experience and someone who understands Spanish football,” Ighalo said.
“It was meant to be a six-month loan and strictly as a back-up striker. It was nice to hear that Barcelona were interested and any footballer would be more than happy to take it.
“But with due respect I had just finished as the second top scorer in China with 21 goals, I deserve better and didn’t want to be a short-term player somewhere.
“We rejected it, it was an easy decision to make and I chose to stay in China by joining Shanghai Shenhua on a longer contract,” he told BBC.
The decision to remain in China isn’t one that the forward regrets.
“You need to weigh things up properly in life and ask yourself if it is your call to make, or one to satisfy others,” Ighalo added.
“I respect my decision. I needed to focus on what is good for my career in the long-term and when you decide to do something – you stay true to yourself. It wasn’t for me and I am happy where I am.
“I have no regrets or whatsoever because I am happy at Shanghai Shenhua. To reunite and play under my former Watford coach [Quique Sanchez Flores] is exciting and I love it.”
