2025 AFCON winners Iliman Ndiaye and Idrissa Gueye earn PFA special recognition

Everton’s Senegalese stars Iliman Ndiaye and Idrissa Gana Gueye have been officially honored by the Professional Footballers’ Association (PFA) following their historic success on the international stage.

The duo was presented with PFA Special Recognition Awards at the club’s Finch Farm training base on Friday, marking their pivotal roles in Senegal’s triumphant Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) campaign concluded earlier this year.

The accolades serve as a formal tribute to the pair’s contributions during the tournament in Morocco, where the Lions of Teranga secured their second continental title in January.

Gueye, a veteran midfielder and one of Senegal’s most-capped players, provided essential leadership throughout the knockout rounds, while Ndiaye’s creative displays further cemented his reputation as one of Africa’s most exciting attacking talents. Their success in the final has been a point of immense pride for both their country and their club.

The PFA’s recognition highlights the impact of Premier League players on the global game. By presenting these awards, the association acknowledged the grueling physical and mental demands placed on athletes who transition seamlessly between high-stakes international tournaments and the rigors of English domestic football.

Both players returned to Merseyside shortly after the final to bolster Everton’s mid-season campaign, maintaining a high level of performance despite the condensed schedule.

At the presentation, club officials and teammates joined in celebrating the achievement, which has provided a significant morale boost to the Everton squad.

Everton and Senegal duo Iliman Ndiaye and Idrissa Gana Gueye have been presented with PFA special recognition awards following their outstanding #AFCON victory in January. 🇸🇳👏 pic.twitter.com/rIchOEeZyb

— PFA (@PFA) March 13, 2026

The “Special Recognition” status is reserved for players who achieve extraordinary milestones, and the duo now joins an elite group of African stars honored by the PFA for continental glory.

For Everton, having two reigning African champions in the starting XI has proven to be a major asset. As the Toffees navigate the final months of the Premier League season, the experience and winning mentality brought back by Ndiaye and Gueye are expected to be vital.

The awards ceremony concludes a month of celebrations for the pair, who remain focal points of Senegal’s golden generation.