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Al-Ittihad striker George Ilenikhena chooses to represent Nigeria over France after talks with Super Eagles coach Eric Chelle.

Published

1 month ago

July 22, 2026

Joseph Imo

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Al-Ittihad striker George Ilenikhena chooses to represent Nigeria over France after talks with Super Eagles coach Eric Chelle.

Al-Ittihad striker, George Ilenikhena has reportedly committed his international future to Nigeria after holding talks with Super Eagles head coach Eric Chelle.

According to Punch, the 19-year-old agreed to represent Nigeria instead of France after Chelle outlined his plans for the highly rated forward, whom he has reportedly monitored for almost a year.

It was also gathered that Ilenikhena was omitted from the Super Eagles squad during the March international window while he was still weighing up the possibility of representing France.

Born in Lagos before relocating to France as a child, Ilenikhena is eligible to represent both Nigeria and France at the international level. However, he has never featured for France in an official youth or senior international match, meaning he remains free to play for Nigeria without needing to file a one-time FIFA nationality switch.

The forward began his professional career with Belgian side Royal Antwerp before joining French Ligue 1 club AS Monaco. He completed a move to Saudi Pro League champions Al-Ittihad earlier this year.

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Joseph Imo

I am a seasoned journalist known for my incisive reporting and unwavering commitment to journalistic integrity. As a key member of the nop.ng team, I specialize in delivering balanced coverage of socio political developments and cultural affairs throughout Nigeria. Driven by a passion for uncovering the truth regardless of the complexity of the issue I have established myself as a trusted voice in Nigeria’s dynamic media landscape, continually striving to empower my audience with clear, contextually rich news.