The 2024 CAF Awards, set to take place on Monday, December 16, in Marrakech, is fast approaching and promises to be a celebration of the finest in African football. One of the most eagerly awaited moments of the evening will be the announcement of the prestigious Coach of the Year award.
The Confederation of African Football (CAF) has revealed the five finalists competing for the coveted title, with each having enjoyed remarkable success over the past year.
The nominees for CAF Coach of the Year are:
- Emerse Faé (Ivory Coast)
- Sébastien Desabre (Democratic Republic of Congo)
- Marcel Koller (Al Ahly)
- Hugo Broos (South Africa)
- Pedro Gonçalves (Angola)
Emerse Faé, coach of the Ivory Coast national team, is one of the frontrunners for the award after leading the Elephants to victory at the most recent Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON).
The 40-year-old Faé has made a significant impact, with his tactical acumen and leadership helping to secure one of the continent’s most prestigious trophies.
Many view him as a strong contender to succeed Morocco’s Walid Regragui, the previous winner, who is not nominated this year.
However, the competition remains fierce. Belgian manager Hugo Broos, who guided South Africa to the semi-finals of the 2023 AFCON, and French coach Sébastien Desabre, who led the DR Congo to a similar feat, are also strong candidates.
The list of finalists is rounded off by two coaches who have excelled in African club competitions. Marcel Koller, who secured the CAF Champions League with Al Ahly, and José Gomes, who triumphed in the CAF Cup with Zamalek, have both made their mark in the interclub scene.
As the 2024 CAF Awards draws near, African football fans around the world have the opportunity to cast their votes for the coach they believe has had the most profound impact on the game this year.
Who will be crowned CAF Coach of the Year? Make your voice heard and vote for your favourite!