Odion Ighalo: Why I dumped Al Shabab for Al Hilal

Nigeria forward Odion Ighalo has revealed why he left Al Shabab for reigning Asian champions Al Hilal, both in the Saudi Arabian league.

The 32 year old who scored 22 goals in 32 games for Al Shabab made the surprise move on Saturday and has said he was motivated by the chance to win a continental honour with his new club.

Ighalo replaces former France international forward Bafetimbi Gomis, who left Al Hilal last week after helping the club win the Asian Champions League in both 2019 and 2021.

“I had a great time with Al Shabab and I thank the club management and fans for the love and support,” Ighalo told BBC Sport Africa.

“It’s a big honour to get a chance to play for the country’s most successful club in Al Hilal.

“To play in the Asian Champions League against some of the continent’s finest teams is also a huge attraction and I really can’t wait.”

Ighalo is also keen to add to the club’s silverware.

“The ambition remains the same, which is to help the club to success in every competition we compete in,” he added.

“I have enjoyed moving to Saudi and every day here I realised that the league is at a competitive level.”