The African Footballer of the Year is an annual award presented to the best player on the continent. This award is given for performances by the player for their clubs as well as for their country. It’s no wonder, then, that Africa has consistently produced footballing talents who have carved a niche for themselves on the global stage.
These players, with their raw skill, relentless drive, and quintessential African spirit, have competed at the highest levels in leagues across the world. They have not only earned global recognition but have also become symbols of hope and aspiration for generations of young Africans back home.
To honour such extraordinary talents from the continent, the African Footballer of the Year stands as the pinnacle of individual recognition. The award, acknowledging the continent’s most outstanding player, is a testament to their performances, both for their clubs and national teams.
- Sadio Mane is the current holder of this award
- The Next African Player of the year award will be announced December 11, 2023 in Morocco.
The year 2023 promises yet another thrilling competition for this coveted accolade. With some spectacular talent vying for the honour, it’s intriguing to project who might lift the prestigious award. The race is a fascinating mix of seasoned campaigners and young upstarts, all boasting impressive performances and undeniable skill.
As we inch closer to the announcement, we’ve compiled a list of the top five favourites to win the African Footballer of the Year in 2023. The ranking encompasses players who’ve showcased remarkable consistency, extraordinary skill, and significant contributions to their teams’ successes over the year.
5. Andre Onana
Andre Onana joined Manchester United from Inter Milan
Kicking off our list at number five is André Onana. The Cameroonian international and new Manchester United first-choice goalkeeper, Onana, is an indispensable asset for both his club and country. Known for his impeccable reflexes and shot-stopping abilities, Onana has played a pivotal role in Inter Milan’s run to the Champions League final in 2022-23.
4. Mohammed Kudus
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At number four, we have Ghanaian sensation Mohammed Kudus. The Ajax midfielder’s dribbling prowess, game intelligence, and goal-scoring abilities have attracted attention worldwide. Despite being young, Kudus has quickly established himself as a key player for Ajax. With consistent match-winning performances, he has firmly positioned himself as a potential candidate for the Footballer of the Year.
3. Achraf Hakimi
Achraf Hakimi won the Ligue 1 with PSG in 2022-23
Moving to number three, we have Moroccan right-back Achraf Hakimi. The Paris Saint-Germain star possesses speed, technical skills, and defensive solidity that make him a force to reckon with. Hakimi’s attacking contribution from the back, coupled with his defensive resilience, sets him apart.
In the 2022-23 season, his performances for both PSG and the Moroccan national team have been noteworthy, thus enhancing his chances of bagging the esteemed trophy.
2. Mohamed Salah
The competition intensifies as we move to the second spot, occupied by none other than Mohamed Salah. The Liverpool forward is no stranger to this prestigious award. Salah’s goal-scoring exploits for the Reds and the Egyptian national team have kept him in the spotlight.
His agility, speed and lethal finishing ability make him one of the most feared forwards globally. If he continues his sublime form, another African Footballer of the Year award could well be on the horizon.
1. Victor Osimhen
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Topping our list is the Nigerian forward Victor Osimhen. Playing for Napoli in Serie A, Osimhen has been a revelation. His speed, strength, and finishing abilities have made him a nightmare for defenders. Osimhen’s goal-scoring prowess has played a crucial role in Napoli’s success. Furthermore, his contribution to the Nigerian national team’s impressive run enhances his chances for the accolade. If Osimhen maintains his exceptional form, he could very well clinch the award in 2023.
The race for African Footballer of the Year 2023 is a fascinating mix of established stars and rising talents. Each contender brings a unique style and flair to the game. While Osimhen, Salah, and Kudus offer a goal-scoring threat, Hakimi provides a blend of defensive and attacking prowess. Onana, on the other hand, showcases his goalkeeping brilliance. As fans eagerly await the announcement, the competition promises to be as thrilling as ever.
