Youngest African UCL 15-Gamer: Ilenikhena Breaks Kanu Record

AS Monaco forward George Ilenikhena has etched his name into UEFA Champions League history after becoming the youngest African player to reach 15 appearances in the competition. The Lagos-born striker achieved the feat at 19 years and 157 days, surpassing the previous record of 19 years and 260 days set by former Nigeria star Nwankwo Kanu.

Born on 16 August 2006, Ilenikhena moved to France aged three and rose through the youth system before starting his professional career at Amiens SC. A 2023 move to Royal Antwerp brought his Champions League debut, highlighted by a late winning goal against Barcelona. He joined Monaco in July 2024 and has since become their youngest Champions League goalscorer, beating Kylian Mbappé’s club record.