George Ilenikhena of Royal Antwerp has revealed that he is a Manchester United fan and he dreams of playing for the club.
The 17-year-old expressed his desire to play in the Premier League in the future and stated that Manchester United is his favorite team.
After signing with Amiens in 2021, the Nigerian came to Europe for the first time. A year later, he was elevated to their senior squad, and the Jupiler Pro League team signed him in the summer of last year as a result of his performances.
Ilenikhena turned down offers from Juventus and Marseille in favor of Royal Antwerp, saying the latter is the “perfect” team for him to eventually make a bigger transfer abroad.
In 27 appearances, he has nine goals, including a winner in last month’s Champions League victory over Barcelona.
The striker revealed his admiration for former Man United star Cristiano Ronaldo, while speaking to Het Laatste Nieuws.
“I used to watch a lot of matches in the Champions League, I saw how players like Cristiano Ronaldo scored goals. Now I was there myself. That first moment after my goal… I couldn’t believe it,” he said.
“He is the best footballer of all time. He inspires others and is also a good person off the field. I watch his videos all the time. So, it should come as no surprise that Manchester United are my favourite club, right? Cristiano played there, didn’t he? But I also really like Mbappé or Haaland.”
Even though the young player’s contract with Royal Antwerp expires in 2027, he still talked about his future goals.
“Where do I want to be in five years? I hope for the Premier League. That competition really appeals to me,” Ilenikhena said.
“You never know which team will win, almost every match is exciting. It’s fun to watch. The way of playing football, the fans, the experience, the atmosphere.”
