Ighalo Hopes to Extend Manchester United Loan Deal

Odion Ighalo has expressed hope that his loan spell at Manchester United will be extended long enough for him to complete the delayed Premier League season.

The former Super Eagles striker joined United from Chinese club Shanghai Shenhua in January on a loan agreement due to expire on May 31.

With the football season suspended because of the coronavirus pandemic, Ighalo faced the possibility of returning to China before Manchester United could complete their remaining fixtures.

“I would like to finish the season if it’s possible,” Ighalo told BBC Sport.

The 30-year-old had enjoyed an impressive start to life at Old Trafford before football was suspended, scoring four goals in eight appearances in all competitions.

“I was in good form, good shape, scoring goals and now we’ve stopped for over a month,” he said. “I’ve given it my best and hopefully we’ll come back to play.”

Ighalo also pointed to Manchester United’s strong run of form before the coronavirus outbreak disrupted the campaign.

“The team had a good momentum before the pandemic started,” he said. “At the moment I’m on loan, and this will cut short my time at the club.”

One of Ighalo’s goals came in United’s 5-0 Europa League victory over LASK on March 12, shortly before the Premier League season was suspended.

Despite uncertainty surrounding his future, Ighalo said his immediate concern was for football to resume safely rather than discussions about a new contract.

“The club, myself, every footballer is going through a lot because we can’t do what we love and what we know how to do best,” he said.

“I just want everyone to be safe and see what the future holds.”

Meanwhile, the Chinese Super League was hoping to begin its delayed season in late June, increasing uncertainty over whether Shanghai Shenhua would agree to extend Ighalo’s stay at Manchester United.