Ighalo: Manchester United can be Europa champions again
By EPHRAIM NWOSU
Former Watford striker, Odion Ighalo believes Manchester United have what it takes to go all the way and win the Europa Cup. Ighalo’s verdict is coming on the heels of recent home defeats to Leicester City and Liverpool.
Despite the loss, the ex Manchester United ace is dripping with confidence that the three time European champions remain bookmakers favourites to once again lift Europe second most prestigious trophy when they lock horns with Spanish minnows Villarreal in the final come May 26.
“With due respect to Villarreal, I think Manchester United have a better chance of winning the Europa Cup,” the erstwhile Udinese and Granada forward averred during an exclusive chat with Daylight Sports via social media.
He continued, “that’s not being disrespectful to Villarreal which by all standard is also a good side but may be lacking the necessary experience to overwhelm a world class team like United.
” It is pertinent to point out that the pressure would be more on United because they are the favourites. Villarreal are the underdogs in this encounter.
“Hopefully United will get the job done at the end of the day.
I’m looking forward to a thrilling final. We will see how it goes. I wish Manchester United good luck and pray they win.”
It would be recalled that Jose Mourinho’s led United defeated Ajax 2-0 to clinch 2017 edition of the Europa League, thanks to goals from Paul Pogba and Henrik Mkhitaryan.
Meanwhile, the 31-year-old has disclosed he has no regret leaving England after a year long spell from Shanghai Shenshua to become the first Nigerian to play for the Red Devils. Ighalo left in January to join Saudi Arabia giants, Al-Shabab.
Prior to his move to the Asian country, the one time Flying Eagles captain had options to remain in England as he was reported to be on the shopping list of West Ham United and West Bromwich Albion but opted for a two and half year contract with Al-Shabab.
“Of course it’s hard to see such a big dream come to an end like that. Yes, it’s true that I miss the fans and the team but life must go on,” noted the Edo born player.
“I give God the glory for giving me the opportunity to play for the best club in the world. The club I so much love and supported as a kid. It was a great feeling, great honour to my family as well as my country.
“I’ve never had a cause to regret leaving England to play in Saudi Arabia. I think I made the right move. So far so good it’s been a wonderful experience and I’m enjoying it.
” I am glad that Sonia (wife) and our three kids have fully settled down here. Al-Shabab is doing everything within its power to make us feel at home. At the moment, we are happy with life here.
“For me, that is what matters most.
The fans are awesome. They are very passionate about their team and I’m proud to be their player.”
Ighalo submitted his ambition was to help his new team win trophies.
” My target is to win trophies where ever I go and I want to do it with this great team. I will always give them my 100 per cent and help the team win everything because they deserve it. I just want to prove a point, ” he concluded.
