Super Eagle forward Kelechi Iheanacho endured another frustrating night as Sevilla drew 1-1 with Osasuna in their La Liga clash on Monday, Soccernet.ng reports.
The former Leicester City striker was poised to enter late in the game but was ultimately sent back to the bench, reportedly due to a tactical adjustment prompted by Sambi Lokonga’s injury concerns.
Sevilla coach García Pimienta initially prepared Iheanacho and captain Jesús Navas for substitution during the final minutes. However, Lokonga’s apparent return from a physical issue left the Nigerian visibly upset as he returned to his seat, per reports from ABC.
Iheanacho joined Sevilla on a free transfer last summer, and has struggled for consistent game time in spain. Despite scoring twice in eight official appearances—both goals coming in a Copa del Rey match against lower-tier Las Rozas—the 27-year-old has now gone two consecutive games without making it onto the pitch.
Sevilla’s attacking struggles were evident against Osasuna, with Budimir giving the visitors an early lead before Dodi Lukebakio salvaged a point for the Andalusian side. Pimienta had hoped to inject fresh energy into Sevilla’s attack, considering Iheanacho as an option, but Lokonga’s situation disrupted the plan.
The draw leaves Sevilla with little to celebrate, while Iheanacho’s limited involvement raises questions about his role in Pimienta’s plans.
This lack of playing time has impacted his prospects with the Nigerian national team. Having faced similar challenges while at Leicester City, questions are now being raised about whether the 2013 FIFA U-17 World Cup Golden Ball winner has lost his edge on the pitch.