Ighalo Reveals Snubbing Barcelona

By Max Wise

Nigeria striker Odion Ighalo has revealed he turned down a move to Spanish champions Barcelona in the January transfer window as he ‘deserved better’.

Barcelona needed attacking reinforcements in January to augment the efforts of Luis Suarez and they turned to the former Watford striker as a result.

Ighalo, who emerged as second top scorer in the Chinese Super League last season with 21 goals for relegated Changchun Yatai, says he refused Barcelona’s offer because they wanted him on a short term loan deal until the end of the season.

"My agent spoke to me about a loan interest from Barcelona. The club wanted a striker with LaLiga experience and someone who understands Spanish football," Ighalo, who instead opted to stay in the CSL with Shanghai Shenhua, told BBC Sport.

"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."

"You need to weigh things up properly in life and ask yourself if it is your call to make or one to satisfy others."

"I respect my decision. I needed to focus on what is good for my career 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."

Barcelona ultimately turned their attention to former Ghana international, Kevin Prince Boateng, on a deal that lasts until the end of the season.