George Ilenikhena, a Nigerian forward for AS Monaco, has set a new mark in UEFA Champions League (UCL) history as the youngest African player to reach 15 appearances in the competition. UEFA confirmed the milestone in official statistics released on Wednesday.
Ilenikhena reached the milestone at 19 years and 157 days, surpassing the previous record held by former Super Eagles and Ajax striker Nwankwo Kanu, who reached 15 appearances at 19 years and 260 days. The record had lasted several decades before Ilenikhena’s breakthrough.
According to UEFA records, his appearance total places him among the youngest players overall to reach that number of UCL matches in the history of the competition.
Born on August 16, 2006, in Lagos, Nigeria, Ilenikhena moved to France with his family at age three. He came through the French youth football system and began his professional career with Amiens SC, where he made his debut in the French league.
In 2023 he moved to Royal Antwerp in Belgium, where he debuted in the Champions League. While at Antwerp, he scored a memorable 92nd-minute winning goal against FC Barcelona in a Champions League match, showcasing his potential on the European stage.
Ilenikhena transferred to AS Monaco in July 2024 and has featured regularly in both domestic and European competitions for the Ligue 1 club.
In addition to the recent Champions League record, Ilenikhena also holds the club’s mark as Monaco’s youngest scorer in the Champions League, breaking a previous record held by Kylian Mbappé.
Significance of the Milestone
The new record underscores Ilenikhena’s emergence as one of the most promising young talents in European football. Reaching 15 UCL appearances at such a young age highlights his consistent selection in high-level matches and his growing influence on the field.
Ilenikhena will continue to compete with Monaco in both the France Ligue 1 and the Champions League as the current season progresses. His development will be watched closely by fans, clubs and potential national team selectors.
