Born in Nigeria on 16 August 2006, George Ilenikhena is a forward currently lighting up the fields of Ligue 1 for Monaco at the age of 18. Predominantly operating as a striker, Ilenikhena stands tall at 6ft (1.85m) and weighs in at 11st 13lb (76kg). For those fond of shirt numbers, you can find him donning the number 21 on his back.
Ilenikhena kicked off his professional career in July 2022 when he signed for Amiens in France's Ligue 2. Despite his tender age, he managed to clock up an impressive 17 first team appearances, notching two goals into his burgeoning career tally during his debut season.
His performances in France sparked interest from further afield and, just a year later in July 2023, he transferred to Royal Antwerp in Belgium's Pro League. The move was reported by sources to be around the £5.2m mark. A busy year followed with Ilenikhena making his mark by appearing 28 times in the first team, netting eight goals to boot.
The young Nigerian's star kept rising, and a year later in July 2024, he was on the move again. This time, he made a significant jump to one of France's top flight clubs, Monaco, in a deal said to be worth around £14m. During his first season with Monaco, Ilenikhena made steady strides, already recording seven league appearances.
Most impressively, Ilenikhena has graced the grand stage of the Champions League in the current 2024-2025 season with Monaco. His forays into Europe's premier club competition have seen him score once in two appearances, both times from the bench.
Many eyes will be on this young forward as he continues to enhance his reputation on both domestic and European frontiers.
