Michy Batshuayi has every reason to celebrate after an outstanding season. Despite narrowly missing out on the Belgian championship title with Standard, the Belgian-Congolese striker has received a prestigious honor. As the current top scorer in the Jupiler Pro League, Batshuayi was awarded the 2014 Soulier d’Ebène, a trophy recognizing the best African or African-origin footballer playing in Belgium.
Expressing his gratitude, Batshuayi acknowledged the role of his teammates and coach in his success, stating, “It’s the first time I’ve won a trophy. It was a pleasure. It’s a great honor. I would never have managed to win this trophy without my teammates. I thank them as well as the coach.”
Regarding his aspirations for the World Cup, Batshuayi remains grounded, emphasizing that he tries not to dwell too much on the possibility of selection, as it could distract him from playing freely. He views the tournament as a dream but recognizes the competition within the Belgian squad and sees potential non-selection as motivation to work harder.
Batshuayi’s impressive tally of 21 goals this season secured him the top spot in the votes for the Soulier d’Ebène, surpassing Lokeren’s Tunisian striker Hamdi Harbaoui and his teammate Paul-José Mpoku. Both Harbaoui and Mpoku expressed their support for Batshuayi, acknowledging his exceptional season and deserving win.
Michy Batshuayi’s achievement in winning the Soulier d’Ebène follows in the footsteps of previous winners like Senegalese Mbaye Leye, further solidifying his status as one of the standout players in Belgian football.
Tags: Belgium, Jupiler Pro League, Michy Batshuayi, Standard, Soulier d’Ebène
