Nigerian forward Odion Ighalo opens up on his short Manchester United stint and lifted lid on why he left the Red Devils earlier this year.

The 31-year-old joined the Premier League side from Chinese Super League outfit Shanghai Shenhua in January 2020 on a six-month loan deal.

Fortunately, the deal has been extended to January this year but the former Super Eagle talisman was not used as he would like to by Man United Boss Ole Gunnar Solskjaer.

Read : Odion Ighalo set to make decision on Super Eagles return

“There wasn’t much possibility because I wanted more playing time,” the 2019 AFCON top scorer told Sky Sports.

“At my age, I want to play and not just sit on the bench and not have any minutes.

“I didn’t just want to be there picking up a salary – I wanted to be involved so I said to my agent that if an offer comes in, I will look at it and see what’s best for me, which is what I did.

“I’m so happy that my path crossed with Manchester United – it’s the club I love with all my heart and for all my life so playing for them was a big privilege that I do not take for granted.

“No matter the circumstances that led me to leave, I will always be grateful to the coach, my team-mates, the fans, and everyone around Manchester United.

“After my initial loan was extended, I did not play much which was perhaps a bit unfair but as I said, I am always grateful for the opportunity”, he added.