Former Super Eagles and AS Monaco forward, Victor Ikpeba, has called on Nigeria’s national team and the NFF to swiftly secure the international allegiance of 18-year-old striker George Ilenikhena.
Born in Lagos, Ilenikhena made history in the UEFA Champions League by becoming Monaco’s youngest player to score in Champions League match against Barcelona.
Ilenikhena’s goal in Monaco’s 2-1 victory over Barcelona eclipsed Kylian Mbappe’s record, making him a promising talent.
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Despite Nigeria’s wealth of attacking options, including Victor Osimhen, Ademola Lookman, and Victor Boniface, Ikpeba believes Ilenikhena has the potential to be a future Super Eagles star.
“I have been following the remarkable progress of the boy; he’s quick and will certainly be one for the future for the Super Eagles,” Ikpeba stated.
“I know that he has already been capped by the French age-grade team, but we can still get him to play for the Super Eagles.”
Ilenikhena’s rise began early, setting a Ligue 2 record as the youngest scorer at 16 years and 150 days when he netted for Bordeaux in January 2023. His strike against Barcelona added another milestone to his growing reputation.
With his first goal for Monaco in only his fifth appearance, Ikpeba insists Nigeria must act swiftly to secure his services.
Ilenikhena scored in Monaco’s 2:1 defeat over Barcelona in the UEFA Champions League
“This is the time to get him in, and thereafter he can fight for his place in the team.”
Ilenikhena’s impressive performance has sparked interest, with Premier League giants sending scouts to monitor Nigerian players.
Nigeria’s national team must capitalize on this opportunity to secure Ilenikhena’s international allegiance.
Will Nigeria succeed in securing Ilenikhena’s services, or will France win the battle for his allegiance? Only time will tell.
