Ilenikhena recalled by Al-Ittihad for Al-Ettifaq fixture

Al-Ittihad have welcomed back Super Eagles striker George Ilenikhena to their squad for Tuesday evening’s meeting with Al-Ettifaq, providing a significant boost as they attempt to recover from their latest defeat.

The former Monaco forward has been named among the eight foreign players selected by German manager Jens Wiessing for the match at Al-Ettifaq Club Stadium in Al Khobar.

Ilenikhena is included alongside Serbian goalkeeper Predrag Rajkovic, Portuguese midfielder Danilo Pereira, Algeria international Houssem Aouar, Dutch pair Steven Bergwijn and Georginio Wijnaldum, Moroccan striker Youssef En-Nesyri and Colombian midfielder Richard Rios.

His recall comes after Al-Ittihad were beaten 3-2 by Al-Hilal at the Kingdom Arena. The club will now be looking to return to winning ways against Al-Ettifaq, with Ilenikhena’s availability strengthening their attacking options.

The 19-year-old has made an impressive start to the campaign, recording six goals and two assists in 10 appearances across all competitions.

That club form earned Ilenikhena his first invitation to the Nigeria squad for the Super Eagles’ 2027 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) qualifiers in September.

He carried his scoring form into international football, finding the net on his debut as Nigeria defeated Madagascar 2-1 in Uyo.

According to Arriyadiyah, Ilenikhena has been included in the squad for Tuesday’s fixture, while Senegalese midfielder Dion Lopy and Serbian forward Karlo Simic have not been selected.

His return is expected to add further threat to an Al-Ittihad attack that also includes En-Nesyri, the former Sevilla striker.

Ilenikhena will be hoping to resume his strong run of performances and help Al-Ittihad claim victory against Al-Ettifaq.