The shortlist for the 2025 Ebony Shoe, recognising the best player of African descent in the Belgian top flight, has been officially unveiled.
Moroccan right-back Zakaria El Ouahdi, who has impressed with his consistent performances for Genk this season, is among the five nominees.
The 23-year-old, known for his attacking flair and defensive solidity, has been a standout figure on the flanks and is aiming to follow in the footsteps of previous winners from North Africa.
Joining him is Congolese international Noah Sadiki, who continues to build his reputation as one of the brightest young talents in Belgium.
At just 20 years old, the Union Saint-Gilloise midfielder has already amassed seven caps for the Democratic Republic of Congo and plays a central role in Union’s charge for the Jupiler Pro League title.
The list also features two prominent Nigerians who have left their mark on the Belgian season. Leading the charge is Tolu Arokodare, whose exceptional goal-scoring exploits have made him the frontrunner for the award.
The 24-year-old striker, recently capped by the Nigerian national team, has netted 20 goals this season, with 17 in the regular campaign and three more during the playoffs, making him the top scorer in the division.
Club Brugge’s midfield anchor Raphael Onyedika is the second Nigerian contender. The 24-year-old defensive midfielder has been a critical figure for coach Nicky Hayen, helping Brugge maintain their pursuit of the title during the playoffs. Onyedika’s work rate, vision, and ability to break up opposition play have been central to Brugge’s strong performances.
Completing the prestigious shortlist is Promise David, a new Canadian international of Nigerian origin. The 23-year-old forward, also plying his trade with Union Saint-Gilloise, delivered an impressive regular season, scoring 11 goals across 24 appearances. His contributions have been vital in establishing Union as one of the league’s most formidable sides.
The 2025 Ebony Shoe will find a new owner after Togolese striker Kevin Denkey, last year’s recipient, departed Cercle Brugge for Major League Soccer outfit FC Cincinnati during the winter transfer window.
Denkey had clinched the accolade ahead of strong competition from Algeria’s Mohammed Amoura, Morocco’s Bilal El Khannouss, Mauritania’s Aboubakary Koita, and Mandela Keita, a Belgian international of Guinean descent.
This year’s winner will be announced during a ceremony scheduled for May 12 with excitement building around who will succeed Denkey as the best African-origin player in Belgian football.
The award not only honours individual excellence but also highlights the significant impact of African and African-descended players on the Belgian league’s growing competitiveness.
With a Moroccan, a Congolese and two Nigerians vying for the coveted prize, the 2025 edition of the Ebony Shoe promises to be one of the most tightly contested in recent memory.
👟 l Voilà le nom des 5 nominés au Soulier d’Ebene :
➡️ Promise David – USG
➡️ Noah Sadiki – USG
➡️ Raphael Onyedika – Club Brugge
➡️ Tolu Arokodare – KRC Genk
➡️ Zakaria El Ouahdi – KRC Genk pic.twitter.com/t8OvL3mlXJ— Ma Pro League (@MaProLeague) April 25, 2025
