Michy Batshuayi has capped off a standout season by winning the prestigious 2014 Ebony Shoe, an award honoring the best African or African-origin player in the Belgian Pro League. With 21 goals to his name and a key role in Standard Liège’s title chase, the 20-year-old Belgian-Congolese striker made a strong case for himself both domestically and as a rising star on the international stage.
Batshuayi humbly credited his teammates and stayed grounded about his World Cup hopes, noting that while it’s a dream, Belgium’s attacking depth means he must continue working hard to earn his place.
He edged out Hamdi Harbaoui (Lokeren) and teammate Paul-José Mpoku, both of whom graciously acknowledged that Batshuayi deserved the award. His win follows Mbaye Leye’s 2013 triumph, and reflects the continued influence of African talent in Belgian football.