Saudi Pro League side Al Ittihad Club have announced the permanent acquisition of Lagos-born forward George Ilenikhena from French Ligue 1 side Monaco.
Ilenikhena is recognized as the youngest Nigerian-born player to score in the UEFA Champions League after finding the net against Barcelona at the age of 17 years and 119 days on December 13, 2023.
He surpassed the previous record held by Obafemi Martins, who scored for Inter Milan during the 2002–2003 season at 18 years and 142 days.
A product of Antony FE and Amiens SC academies, Ilenikhena wore the colours of Royal Antwerp before transferring to Monaco in the summer of 2024.
The 19-year-old Ilenikhena featured in 51 matches for AS Monaco, registering 10 goals and two assists.
He played a significant role in Monaco's impressive 2024–2025 campaign, which saw the club secure a top-three finish in Ligue 1 alongside a strong run in the UEFA Champions League.
Al-Ittihad have brought in Ilenikhena following the departure of France and Real Madrid legend Karim Benzema, who has joined rivals Al-Hilal.
Reigning champions of the Saudi Pro League, Al-Ittihad are sitting sixth in the current standings with 34 points accumulated from nineteen games.
Ifeanyi Emmanuel
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