Nigeria head coach Eric Chelle was spotted in the stands during AS Monaco’s recent Ligue 1 clash with Olympique de Marseille, monitoring emerging striker George Ilenikhena as part of his plan to inject new blood into the Super Eagles squad.
With the 2026 World Cup qualifiers looming in September and October, Chelle has accelerated efforts to broaden his scouting reach, focusing particularly on players eligible to represent Nigeria but currently playing abroad.
Ilenikhena, who recently made the move to Monaco from Belgian side Royal Antwerp, has emerged as a top priority on the coach’s radar.
The 18-year-old forward, who operates predominantly with his left foot, has made 19 appearances in Ligue 1 since his January switch to the French top flight.
His tally of three goals, combined with his composure in front of goal and pace in transition, has made him one of the more talked-about young forwards in Europe.
“George Ilenikhena is clearly being tracked very closely,” a source revealed, echoing growing speculation within Nigerian media that Chelle sees the teenager as a key piece in his long-term strategy to rejuvenate the national team.
Although Ilenikhena has already featured for France at U21 level, his Nigerian heritage opens the door to a potential international switch.
Should the striker opt to represent Nigeria, he would need to file a formal request with FIFA to change his sporting allegiance.
Sources close to the player suggest that such a move is being seriously weighed.
His decision could significantly impact the Super Eagles’ attacking setup, especially as the team looks to transition into a new era with younger talents supplementing experienced stars.
Chelle’s visible presence at the Stade Vélodrome underscores how committed he is to this process, and how high Ilenikhena ranks on his list of targets.
The Nigerian Football Federation is expected to continue monitoring the situation as developments unfold, aware that securing Ilenikhena’s commitment could represent a major coup in the race for dual-national players.
As Nigeria recalibrates ahead of crucial World Cup qualifiers, Chelle’s proactive approach to scouting abroad signals a clear shift in direction—one that prioritizes youth, versatility, and future potential.
For now, all eyes remain on Ilenikhena, whose next international decision could shape the trajectory of his career and bolster Nigeria’s ambitions on the global stage.
