Odion Ighalo is a name that needs no introduction in Nigerian football circles. The experienced striker has enjoyed a long and successful career, leading the line for both club and country.
From his early days in Nigeria to playing for some of the biggest clubs across Europe, Asia, and the Middle East, Ighalo’s journey has been nothing short of inspiring.
In this article, Footynaija.com takes you through everything you need to know about Odion Ighalo.
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Biography
Odion Jude Ighalo was born on June 16, 1989, in Lagos, Nigeria. He grew up in the Ajegunle area, a Lagos slum where life was tough, but football became his escape and dream.
Ighalo’s football journey started in Nigerian clubs Prime and Julius Berger, before he moved to Europe, where he continued with Lyn Oslo in Norway. His career soon took him to Udinese in Italy, and from there, he played for Granada in Spain, Watford in England, and Changchun Yatai and Shanghai Shenhua in China.
He then fulfilled a childhood dream by joining Manchester United on loan in 2020. After his time in England, he moved to Al Shabab and then to Al Hilal in Saudi Arabia.
He made his debut for the Nigerian national team in 2015. Since then, he has become one of the country’s most important strikers, earning 37 caps and scoring 16 goals.
His international career reached new heights in 2019 when he helped Nigeria finish third at the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) and won the Golden Boot with 5 goals.
He has also represented Nigeria in major tournaments like the 2018 FIFA World Cup and multiple AFCON editions.
Ighalo announced his retirement from international football after the 2019 AFCON, but in 2020, he made a return to the Super Eagles when they needed an experienced forward.
His last appearance for Nigeria came in 2022. Now, in 2025, he plays for Al Wehda in the ROSHN Saudi League.
Career Stats
Ighalo has continued to bang in goals in the Middle East. Here is a look at his club career numbers so far:
Lyn Oslo – 20 appearances (9G, 1A)
Udinese – 6 appearances (1G, 0A)
Granada – 132 appearances (38G, 6A)
Watford – 100 appearances (40G, 9A)
Changchun Yatai – 55 appearances (36G, 8A)
Shanghai Shenhua – 19 appearances (10G, 0A)
Manchester United – 23 appearances (5G, 1A)
Al Shabab – 32 appearances (22G, 4A)
Al Hilal – 60 appearances (43G, 7A)
Al Wehda – 61 appearances (22G, 2A)
Nigeria – 37 appearances (16G, 3A)
Current Stats
Odion Ighalo is currently leading the line for Saudi Pro League side Al-Wehda. The experienced Nigerian striker has been doing his bit for the team this season, making 25 appearances across all competitions, with 5 goals and 1 assist to his name so far.
Family
Ighalo was born to parents who instilled discipline and a strong work ethic in him from a young age. He is married to Sonia Ighalo, and together they have three children.
However, after a series of on and off moments, the couple finalised a divorce process and went their separate ways in 2022.
Salary
Odion Ighalo continues to earn a solid income, even as he nears the end of his playing career. Currently, at Al-Wehda in Saudi Arabia, the veteran striker reportedly earns an annual salary of $1.10 million.
Having enjoyed a successful stint in Asia, including a notable time at Shanghai Shenhua and Manchester United, Ighalo remains one of Nigeria’s most accomplished football exports.
Girlfriend, Wife, and Kids
After his reported split from Sonia, Ighalo has been linked with several women. He was once rumoured to be dating Nigerian actress Lilian Esoro.
More recently, Ighalo sparked fresh dating rumours with UK-based podcaster Esther. These rumours were fueled by viral Snapchat pictures, which showed the two together in Saudi Arabia, leading fans to wonder if there was more to their relationship.
Ighalo remains a proud father of three: two boys and one girl. He often shares moments with them on social media.
Net Worth and Market Value
Odion Ighalo has made quite a fortune during his football career. Reports estimate his net worth to be around €38 million. His wealth has come from his time playing for top clubs in China and Saudi Arabia, including his current contract with Al-Wehda.
According to Transfermarkt, Ighalo is currently worth €1 million.
Transfer News
Ighalo completed his move to Al Wehda in September 2023. He continues to be a strong force in the Saudi Pro League, scoring goals regularly and helping his side compete in the league.
Currently there are no news about his move from the Saudi Pro League club.
FC 25 Ratings
In FC 25, Ighalo still boasts decent ratings that reflect his experience and goal-scoring abilities. His overall rating is 75.
Here are his key attributes:
Physicality: 83
Shooting: 77
Jumping: 85
Positioning: 77
Stamina: 87
Finishing: 80
Strength: 85
Pace: 61
Sprint Speed: 62
Long Shots: 72
Volleys: 75
Penalties: 66
