Chelsea forward Tyrique George made history by becoming the youngest Nigeria-eligible player to score in European competition for the Blues, but has yet to receive any contact from the Nigerian Football Federation regarding his international future.
George, aged 19 years and 65 days, scored his first senior goal during Chelsea’s 3-0 away victory over Legia Warsaw in the UEFA Conference League, surpassing the long-standing record set by Celestine Babayaro, who netted at 20 years and 187 days back in 1998.
Born in London to a Nigerian father, Yusuff, George has risen through the Chelsea academy since joining as an U8. He has already featured in 18 senior games across all competitions for the Premier League club, tallying four assists and one goal.
Though eligible for the Super Eagles, the forward has consistently represented England at U16 through U19 levels and is widely seen by the English FA as a star in the making.
George made his senior debut earlier in the season against Servette, coming on as a substitute for Noni Madueke.
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Editorial
It’s hard to ignore what Tyrique George has just achieved. In breaking a 26-year-old record held by one of Nigeria’s footballing greats, he’s not only made a name for himself—he’s issued a gentle reminder to the Nigerian Football Federation: the future is calling, but are we answering?
This isn’t the first time a dual-national talent has slipped under the radar, only to be snapped up by another country’s system. George has already represented England at four youth levels. That’s not a coincidence—it’s a commitment. Meanwhile, Nigeria remains silent, watching from a distance as one of the most promising attacking talents develops under Chelsea’s elite programme.
The reality is simple. Talent like George’s doesn’t wait. If Nigeria wants to compete at the highest levels, the recruitment of top diaspora prospects must become strategic—not reactive. Waiting until players break into senior squads or earn full caps for other nations is a recurring mistake we can no longer afford.
We believe it’s time for the NFF to act. Call the boy. Show interest. Lay out the vision. Let Tyrique George know there’s a place for him—not just in the record books, but in the heart of Nigeria’s football future.
Did You Know?
- Celestine Babayaro held the previous record for youngest Nigerian to score for Chelsea in Europe, set in 1998.
- Tyrique George has been with Chelsea since age 8 and is a graduate of their Cobham academy.
- He has played 18 matches for Chelsea’s senior team in the 2024/25 season, contributing five goal involvements.
- George has been capped at four different youth levels for England but is yet to play a competitive senior match.
- His debut came in a UEFA Conference League match against Servette FC, replacing Noni Madueke in the second half.
