The shortlist for the 2025 Marc-Vivien Foé Award has been narrowed to three standout African players in Ligue 1, with Morocco, Senegal and Ivory Coast each represented in the final phase of the competition.
This annual accolade, organised by Radio France Internationale and France 24, honours the best African player in the French top flight.
The 2025 edition sees Achraf Hakimi (Paris Saint-Germain), Habib Diarra (RC Strasbourg), and Evann Guessand (OGC Nice) as the remaining contenders for the prestigious award.
Diarra leads Senegal’s charge for a first title
RC Strasbourg’s Habib Diarra has emerged as one of Ligue 1’s most consistent midfielders this season.
At just 20 years old, the Senegalese international has become a key figure in his side, starting 26 of his 28 appearances in the league.
A victory for Diarra would mark the first time a Senegalese player claims the Marc-Vivien Foé honour.
His all-action presence in midfield and influence on both ends of the pitch have not gone unnoticed, but the competition for the award is fierce.
Hakimi stands tall as PSG’s defensive rock
Achraf Hakimi is no stranger to the spotlight.
A pillar in Paris Saint-Germain’s title-winning campaign, the Moroccan full-back has continued to impress with his pace, defensive reliability, and attacking flair.
Hakimi, who also serves as PSG’s vice-captain, has registered four goals and eight assists in just 24 league appearances.
With his name also circulating in the discussion for Ligue 1’s overall Player of the Season, Hakimi is a strong contender to follow in the footsteps of past Moroccan winners of the prize.
Guessand shines for high-flying Nice
Evann Guessand has enjoyed a breakout season at OGC Nice, emerging as one of Ligue 1’s most dangerous forwards.
The Ivorian striker has tallied 11 goals and eight assists across 31 league matches, starting 28 of them.
His productivity and versatility in attack have drawn attention from across Europe—and now, from the Marc-Vivien Foé voting panel.
Ivory Coast has seen previous success in this competition, and Guessand’s performances may well add another chapter to that legacy.
The countdown continues
The winner of the 2025 Marc-Vivien Foé Award will be revealed on Monday, 12 May.
The prize, named in honour of the late Cameroon international Marc-Vivien Foé, celebrates African excellence in French football.
Last year’s recipient was Gabon’s Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang, who clinched the title following a prolific campaign with Marseille.
As anticipation builds, all eyes remain on Hakimi, Diarra and Guessand—three men whose talents have lit up Ligue 1 and who now await their moment of recognition.
