For the 2019 CAF Awards, the “African Interclub Player of the Year” category has highlighted 20 standout players who have excelled while representing African clubs over the past year. This award recognizes the top performers in African club football, taking into account their impact in domestic leagues, continental competitions such as the CAF Champions League and CAF Confederation Cup, and their contributions to team success.
Among the nominees are Tunisians Ferjani Sassi and Ali Maaloul, both key figures in Espérance Sportive de Tunis’s campaigns. Sassi, a midfielder known for his vision and passing ability, has orchestrated play from the center of the park, while left-back Maaloul has contributed both defensively and offensively, particularly with his set-piece deliveries and goals.
From the Democratic Republic of Congo, the list includes Trésor Mputu and Meschak Elia, who have been influential in their respective clubs. Mputu, a veteran and club legend, continues to be a guiding force in the attack, while Elia’s pace, dribbling, and creativity have helped him stand out in continental competitions, even amidst recent off-field controversies.
Youcef Belaili, the Algerian winger, also makes the list. Having made a name for himself at Espérance de Tunis before moving to Al-Ahli Saudi FC, Belaili’s flair, dribbling skills, and goals in the Champions League cemented his reputation as one of Africa’s most exciting attacking players.
The Togolese striker Fo Doh Laba, now with Al Ain, is another strong contender. Laba has impressed consistently with his goal-scoring ability, both in Morocco with Renaissance Berkane and in the UAE, where he has continued to find the back of the net regularly. His performance in the CAF Confederation Cup, where he was the top scorer, has particularly boosted his chances for the award.
This category showcases the breadth of talent present in African club football, from seasoned veterans like Mputu to rising stars like Elia. The nominees’ performances have not only brought them personal recognition but also helped their clubs achieve success domestically and on the continental stage.
The African Interclub Player of the Year award celebrates players who excel in African competitions and highlights the quality of football being played on the continent. It also gives visibility to players who may soon make the jump to European leagues while rewarding those who remain in Africa and contribute to raising the standard of the game locally.
CAF will announce the winner during the CAF Awards ceremony in January 2020, a prestigious event that honors the best of African football across multiple categories, including male and female players, coaches, and national teams.
