Sevilla head coach García Pimienta has addressed recent criticism surrounding the club’s handling of Nigerian striker Kelechi Iheanacho, following comments from former Super Eagles coach Finidi George.

Finidi, in a passionate statement, expressed dissatisfaction with Sevilla’s treatment of Iheanacho and urged the forward to seek opportunities elsewhere.

“I think they have disrespected him in many ways,” Finidi told Africa Foot.

“They expected a lot from him when he arrived, but it’s still early days, and he hasn’t been given enough time to settle in.

“In my opinion, he should leave the club if any good offers come along. He is 28 and still has a lot to offer, but he needs to be at a place where he is truly appreciated. A return to England would be a great option, but he could also explore opportunities in new environments.”

Reacting to Finidi’s remarks, Pimienta denied any disrespect toward Iheanacho and attributed the forward’s limited playing time to tactical choices and squad preferences.

“No, no, I had no idea of those words. I can assure you that I have not disrespected him at any time,” Pimienta said, as quoted by Estadio Deportivo.

“Kelechi has been a player like any other. It is true that he has participated perhaps less than expected.

I can understand that he is an international player, an established player but I have considered which player was better for each moment, and Isaac [Romero] has played more than him.

“But there is no lack of respect. Apart from that, I am delighted with the boy, he has always had exemplary behaviour. Now he is training, and he will surely be called up tomorrow.

“I understand that he wants to play more and that, surely, a player established like him in European football has options to find a team. But for me, he is a player who, like others in the squad, has not had those minutes.”

Iheanacho, who joined Sevilla in the summer, is under contract with the Andalusian club until June 2026, with an option for an additional year. Despite this, the Super Eagles forward has been linked with a potential move away from the club, with reports suggesting interest from both English and Spanish teams.

Speculation about Iheanacho’s future has intensified with Sevilla reportedly in advanced talks to sign Nigerian striker Akor Adams.

The arrival of Adams could pave the way for Iheanacho’s exit as he seeks more consistent playing time.