Leicester City manager Enzo Maresca addressed speculation surrounding the absence of Kelechi Iheanacho from the squad, asserting that their relationship remains positive despite recent omissions.

Iheanacho, had been a regular for the Foxes until he sustained an injury in December and followed by his participation in the African Cup of Nations with Nigeria.

The 27-year-old has now struggled to secure consistent playing time upon his return.

His last appearance for the Foxes was against Millwall on April 9, where he featured for 17 minutes. Iheanacho has been left out of the squad for the past five matches, including Leicester City’s recent triumph over Preston North End, which secured their Championship title and subsequent promotion to the Premier League.

Responding to inquiries regarding the player’s absence, Maresca emphasized that there are no underlying issues between the club and Iheanacho, affirming his confidence in resolving any concerns at the conclusion of the season.

“I already mentioned in January, during the window, when we had some issues. I said it was not the moment. At the end of the season, we can talk about it. The same thing with the financial problems.

“Nobody told me, which I don’t think is the right thing to do. There are things we need to clarify. For the rest, we are fantastic. We are all happy,” Maresca was quoted by Leicester Mercury.

The former Manchester City forward has five goals and one assist in twenty-five matches for Leicester City this season.

With his Iheanacho’s playing time has dwindled in recent weeks, the squad could be allow to leave at the end of the season.​

Kelechi Iheanacho has less than four months on his current deal and negotiations over a contract extension yet to materialize.