Monaco starlet George Ilenikhena's international future is shaping up to be a tug of war between Nigeria and France, as reports suggest that France are looking to naturalize the young talent so he can represent them on the international stage.
According to RMC, the French Football Federation has been closely monitoring the player and is interested in capping him for Les Bleus.
Born in Lagos, Nigeria, the 18-year-old moved to France with his family at the age of three and began his football journey there.
He started playing in Antony, Hauts-de-Seine, before making his professional debut at Amiens, where he became the youngest scorer in Ligue 2 history in January 2023, netting a goal against Bordeaux at just 16 years and 147 days.
George Ilenikhena awakening Nigeria, France interest at Monaco
After impressing at Amiens, Ilenikhena secured a move to Belgian side Royal Antwerp, where his performances earned him a swift return to France with Monaco.
His stock has continued to rise, and he recently broke Kylian Mbappé’s record as the youngest goalscorer for Monaco.
In a UEFA Champions League clash against Barcelona, Ilenikhena also became the youngest scorer in Monaco’s Champions League history at 18 years and 34 days, again surpassing Mbappé, who had scored in the competition for Monaco at 18 years and 63 days.
With his remarkable talent and impressive performances, the French, led by the Technical Director of the French Football Federation, Hubert Fournier, are reportedly working on plans to have him commit to representing France, with developments expected by early 2025.
Ilenikhena will face a crucial decision next year: whether to heed the call of the Nigeria Football Federation, who have already made contact with his representatives, or to pledge his future to France.
