AS Monaco sign young Nigerian forward George Ilenikhena
AS Monaco have made a significant signing by bringing in 17-year-old Nigerian forward George Ilenikhena from Belgian champions Royal Antwerp.
This move is seen as a major coup, with Ilenikhena poised to follow in the footsteps of Victor Osimhen.
Born in Lagos in 2006, Ilenikhena moved to France at the age of 3. He gained attention after breaking into the Amiens first team last season, as noted on the club’s website. He made history in January 2023 as the youngest-ever goalscorer in Ligue 2 with a goal against Bordeaux.
His performances earned him a transfer to Antwerp last summer, where he continued to impress under former Bayern Munich star Mark Van Bommel. Ilenikhena scored 14 goals in 50 games for the Belgian champions, including a notable goal against Barcelona in the Champions League, catching the eye of Europe’s top clubs.
AS Monaco has now secured his signature, reportedly paying a substantial fee for the Nigerian wonderkid. Ilenikhena, who can play across the front line, has left compatriot Alhassan Yusuf at Antwerp to join the Ligue 1 side. At just 17, he is the only player born in 2006 or later to have scored more than five goals across the top 10 European leagues, currently boasting eight goals.
Wearing the number 21 shirt, Ilenikhena aims to continue his rapid rise under Monaco boss Adolf Huetter. Known for his pace, clinical finishing, and ability to create chances, he has all the qualities to become a modern football superstar. Monaco hopes he can emulate Victor Osimhen, who also began his career in Belgium and went on to become one of the world’s top strikers.
