The Rise of Ahanor: A Future Star in Italian Football

Ahanor was born in Aversa, Campania, but due to his Nigerian heritage, he will not be eligible for full Italian citizenship until he turns 18 on February 23. This regulation has thus far prevented him from representing Italy, the country he has called home his entire life. Nevertheless, his exclusion from international youth competitions has not hindered his development.

After relocating to Genoa with his family at just one year old, Ahanor began his football journey with Progetto Atletico, a local initiative, before being signed by Genoa’s youth system at the tender age of five.

He quickly garnered attention at the Luigi Ferraris Stadium as the most promising talent since Pietro Pellegri, who made his Serie A debut at 15. Ahanor’s exceptional skills were undeniable; during the 2023-24 season, he played for Genoa’s Under-17s, U18s, and U19s, contributing significantly to the U18s’ Italian title victory.

Alberto Gilardino, a former Primavera coach and now in charge of the senior team, recognized Ahanor’s potential and integrated him into the first team at the beginning of the 2024-25 season. Consequently, it was historic when Ahanor made his debut six rounds into the season, becoming the first player born in 2008 to compete in Serie A, playing on the left wing against Juventus.

“When the coach handed me the bib during the final training session, I felt a surge of emotions,” Ahanor recalled. “But I managed to calm myself, thanks to my teammates. On the pitch, I concentrated on enjoying the game and supporting my team. Wearing the jersey of my childhood club was an unforgettable experience, and I am eternally grateful to Mister Gilardino for this opportunity.”

Ahanor made his second Serie A appearance as a substitute against Parma on November 4, 2024, but a serious knee injury sidelined him for five months shortly thereafter.

“Those months were long and filled with mixed emotions, some of which were hard to understand,” he confessed. “At times, it was difficult to envision the future. However, what truly matters is how you respond to challenges. I experienced every match as a spectator, filled with the desire to return to the field in the jersey I love, and ultimately, I succeeded.”

Upon regaining full fitness in April 2025, Ahanor seamlessly rejoined Gilardino’s squad and made four more appearances before the season concluded.

Having shown no negative impact from his injury, Ahanor attracted interest from several top European clubs, including AC Milan, Roma, Monaco, and Chelsea, but he ultimately decided that Atalanta would best support his growth as a player.

“It is gratifying to know that many elite teams were interested in me, but I had no doubt in choosing Atalanta,” Ahanor stated.

Atalanta agreed to pay Genoa an initial €16 million, with potential bonuses of €4 million, for a player who had made just six first-team appearances. Atalanta’s CEO, Luca Percassi, expressed confidence in their recruitment strategy, recognizing Ahanor’s notable qualities both on and off the pitch.

Then-coach Ivan Juric was equally impressed by Ahanor, who debuted as a starter in a 3-0 victory over Torino after being called upon when Isak Hien was injured. Ahanor made his first start for Atalanta against Juventus the following weekend.

He soon experienced Champions League action, playing in the latter stages of a match against Paris Saint-Germain and subsequently delivering an exceptional performance in a 90-minute win against Club Brugge.

Ahanor has been a consistent presence in the squad, and after another injury to Sead Kolasinac on January 3, he secured a regular starting position under Juric’s successor, Palladino, prior to a recent suspension due to a red card.

It is rare for a 17-year-old to thrive at the elite level of football, yet Ahanor showcases impressive athleticism, strength, and remarkable footballing IQ, enabling him to read the game effectively.

His technical skills stand out, allowing him to excel in various positions, from center-back to left-back, and even on the wing. Throughout his youth career, Ahanor displayed a keen goal-scoring ability, netting his first goal for Atalanta in a Coppa Italia match against his former club Genoa. Palladino appreciates his tenacity, determination, and commitment to making the most of every opportunity.

Ahanor’s height, at six feet, may present challenges in aerial duels typical for center-backs. However, improvement is possible, as demonstrated by notable players like Fabio Cannavaro, who excelled despite similar height challenges.

Currently, Ahanor’s focus is on earning his place back in the starting lineup after serving his suspension. With his 18th birthday approaching, he will finally be eligible for Italian citizenship. While the bureaucratic process may be slow, there is a possibility he could be called up by the Italian national team for an upcoming World Cup qualification play-off against Northern Ireland.

It may be unlikely for coach Gennaro Gattuso to field Ahanor in such a critical match, but there is a strong desire within the Italian camp to ensure he remains committed to Italy rather than declaring for Nigeria, his parents’ homeland.

As for what lies ahead, Ahanor’s path remains uncertain, but one thing is clear: he is widely regarded as a future star in football.