Odion Ighalo Grants Classy First Interview After Man Utd Loan Extension

Odion Ighalo is excited that his Manchester United “dream” did not come to an underwhelming end after a loan extension was belatedly struck with Shanghai Shenhua.

Having joined the club he supported since childhood in January, the coronavirus situation saw play halted in mid-March.

The Nigeria international appeared to have made his last appearance for Ole Gunnar Solskjaer’s men with the season extended well beyond his loan’s May 31 expiration.

But a late deal was struck with Shanghai Shenhua to extend the loan until January 2021, much to the delight of Ighalo.

“I’m really happy,” Ighalo said. “It’s a dream for me to be here. I’m buzzing and ready to go.

“I feel OK. The last few days have been difficult as there have been different talks about it but now I’m really happy, so I need to concentrate fully. I’m here until the end of January, so it’s good for me.

“I decided I want to stay and I’m happy. Since the first day I arrived, I made it clear that I wanted whatever it takes to continue that work.

“It was very difficult, there were some talks, but I’m happy they finally agreed and got everything done. Everything is official now.

“I’m sending thanks to the Shanghai president and director for the support because they know this is what I want. So I’m thanking them and I’m happy that this has happened. They wish me all the best too.

“Like I’ve said, since I was young, I’ve been supporting this club and playing for it is a dream. Now I’ve extended my loan, it makes it more even clear and I’m committed as I know, in my head, I’m here until January ending.

“I just want to work hard and enjoy it, support the team and do whatever I can to make us go higher and higher.”