France’s FA set to battle NFF for Lagos-born Monaco forward

The race to secure young Monaco forward George Osrzehmen Ilenikhena has intensified as both the French and Nigerian Football Federations (FFF and NFF) set their sights on the 18-year-old talent, Soccernet.ng reports.

Born in Lagos, Nigeria, and currently playing for AS Monaco, Ilenikhena has attracted attention for his exceptional potential, with both national teams eager to secure his services for their senior squads.

Ilenikhena, who arrived in France at the age of three, began his football journey in Antony, a town in the Parisian suburbs, before making his professional debut with Amiens.

He made headlines in January 2023, when, at just 16 years and 147 days, he became the youngest scorer in Ligue 2 history, netting a goal against the Girondins de Bordeaux.

The French Football Federation, through Technical Director Hubert Fournier, has already initiated the process of Ilenikhena’s naturalisation, as they aim to secure his representation for Les Bleus.

According to RMC Sport, the FFF is closely monitoring the forward’s development and expects progress on the matter by early 2025.

However, Nigeria is not standing by idly. The Nigerian football body are reportedly making efforts to approach Ilenikhena as they seek to bring the young star into the Super Eagles fold.

With the player eligible to represent either nation, both federations will likely intensify their efforts to convince the promising forward to commit to their respective teams.

Ayomide Oguntimehin

Ayomide Oguntimehin is a CAF-accredited sports journalist and an Editor at Soccernet.ng, with a proven track record in conducting interviews with Super Eagles stars such as William Troost-Ekong, Taiwo Awoniyi, Bright Osayi-Samuel, Ademola Lookman, and many others. He has also made a significant impact in breaking transfer news stories.

Grounded in video editing, video journalism, social media management, and content strategy, Ayomide brings a wealth of expertise to his work.

With a Bachelor’s degree in English Language from Adeyemi College of Education and a Master’s Degree in School Library and Media Technology from the University of Ibadan, Ayomide is well-prepared to excel in the field.