France Under-21 head coach Gérald Baticle is reportedly disappointed after promising striker George Ilenikhena committed his international future to Nigeria’s Super Eagles instead of joining France’s youth setup.
According to a report, Baticle had hoped to bring the Al-Ittihad forward into his France U21 plans during the recent international break. However, Ilenikhena reportedly informed the French coach that he had already decided to represent Nigeria.
Born in Lagos on August 16, 2006, Ilenikhena moved to France with his family as a young child and developed through the French football system. His career has included spells with Amiens, Royal Antwerp and Monaco before his move to Saudi Pro League side Al-Ittihad.
Despite his development in France, the forward remained eligible to represent Nigeria, the country of his birth. His decision reportedly followed discussions with Super Eagles head coach Éric Chelle, whose approach helped convince the young striker to commit to the Nigerian national team.
Ilenikhena made an immediate impression on his senior international debut, scoring in first-half stoppage time as Nigeria came from behind to defeat Madagascar 2-1 in their 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifier in Uyo on September 25, 2026. Fellow debutant Moses Usor scored the winning goal to complete the comeback.
While Ilenikhena was making his debut for Nigeria, France U21 recorded a 7-1 victory over Switzerland in their European Championship qualifying campaign. The French side featured other young talents, including players reportedly considered alongside Ilenikhena for Baticle’s plans.
The striker’s choice represents a significant development for Nigeria as Chelle looks to strengthen his attacking options with emerging talent. Ilenikhena’s performances for Al-Ittihad and his scoring debut have given the Super Eagles another young forward to develop for future international competitions.
For France, the reported setback highlights the challenge national teams face in attracting dual-eligible players who have grown up and developed abroad. However, Baticle’s reported disappointment has not been accompanied by a direct public statement from the coach in the reports currently available.
Ilenikhena will now look to build on his promising start in Nigeria’s colours as the Super Eagles continue their AFCON 2027 qualifying campaign.
