OFFICIAL: Monaco sign Antwerp's Nigerian gem George Ilenikhena

Monaco has confirmed in the last few hours an interesting signing for the 2024-25 season. It is the very young Nigerian striker with French passport George Ilenikhena. The Lagos-born player, who arrived in France when he was just a child, rose to fame in the last Champions League, as he became one of the youngest scorers in the history of the tournament with his goal against Barcelona in the group stage of the 2023-24.

Ilenikhena played for Belgian club Antwerp, where he joined only a year ago from French club Amiens. He returns to French football and confirms a huge projection. From 17 appearances and 2 goals for the Ligue 2 side in 2022-23, the striker has gone on to score 17 in 50 games in Belgium, one of which helped Antwerp defeat Barcelona 3-2 in the final group game.

The French side have now spent €17 million to sign the player, who will soon turn 18. Ilenikhena's achievements in his short career include becoming the youngest scorer in Ligue 2 against Girondins Bordeaux on January 13, 2023, and surpassing Romelu Lukaku by becoming, at 17 years and 14 days, the youngest scorer to score in two consecutive Belgian League matches.

Finally, with the goal scored in the 92nd minute against Xavi's team, Ilenikhena became the second youngest scorer in the history of the Champions League, behind only Ansu Fati and ahead of Norwegian Antonio Nusa. Now, the Nigerian will have the task of continuing to break records at one of the clubs that best treat youngsters in French soccer.

 

July 25, 2024