Iheanacho Celtic future receives a boost after Martin O’Neill’s permanent appointment at Celtic ahead of key squad decisions

Nigerian striker Kelechi Iheanacho has received a major boost to his hopes of remaining at Celtic FC after the Scottish champions awarded manager Martin O’Neill a permanent contract following a successful season.

Also read: Martin O’Neill Casts Doubt on Iheanacho Future

Iheanacho joined Celtic in September 2025 on a one-year deal after leaving Sevilla FC as a free agent. His current contract is set to expire on June 30, although Celtic retain the option to extend the agreement by an additional year.

A final decision on the striker’s future is expected as the club concludes plans for next season’s Scottish Premiership title defence and European campaign.

The appointment of O’Neill is widely seen as a positive development for Iheanacho, who enjoyed significant support from the manager during the latter stages of the season.

O’Neill guided Celtic to a domestic double, securing both the Scottish Premiership title and the Scottish Cup, while regularly relying on Iheanacho to deliver in decisive moments.

The Nigerian forward made a powerful impact despite limited starts, scoring crucial goals during Celtic’s title-winning campaign.

Among his standout contributions were a late penalty against Motherwell, a winning goal away to Hibernian and a goal in the Scottish Cup final.

His ability to influence games from the bench earned widespread praise from supporters and strengthened his case for a longer stay at Parkhead.

The statistics further highlight his effectiveness. Iheanacho scored nine goals and registered one assist across all competitions, while accumulating just 489 minutes of Premiership action.

That return ranks among the most impressive goals-per-minute records in the Scottish top flight.

He also delivered a memorable two-goal substitute performance in a 6-2 victory over St Mirren in April, scored the decisive goal against Hibernian in May and finished the league season with another goal against Dunfermline.

The strong finish has enhanced discussions surrounding the Iheanacho Celtic Future as club officials prepare for important squad decisions during the summer transfer window.

Now 29, Iheanacho has reportedly begun specialist fitness training ahead of pre-season in a bid to improve his chances of securing a regular starting position should he remain with the Scottish champions.

Also read: Celtic Yet to Decide Kelechi Iheanacho’s Future – O’Neill

With O’Neill now firmly established as manager and Celtic preparing for another demanding domestic and European campaign, the former Leicester City FC and Manchester City FC striker appears to be in a stronger position to extend his stay in Glasgow than at any stage since joining the club.