For the second year in a row, the African XI of the Year will be revealed at the prestigious CAF Awards, celebrating the continent’s top football talent. This ceremony, one of the most anticipated events in African football, honors the best players, coaches, and clubs across the continent. Fans, players, and officials eagerly await the announcement of the ideal eleven, which recognizes those who have made a significant impact during the year.
The selection of the African XI is organized by FIFPro Africa, the African division of the International Union of Professional Footballers, in close collaboration with the Confederation of African Football (CAF). In recent days, FIFPro Africa released a shortlist of players considered for the 2019 Team of the Year. The final eleven will reflect the votes of national teams as well as professional players from leagues across Africa, ensuring that the selection captures both performance and peer recognition.
During the last international break, national team captains and coaches across the continent were invited to cast their votes. Likewise, professional players competing in African leagues contributed their opinions, adding an important perspective from those who compete against these talents on a weekly basis. This inclusive voting process ensures that the Team of the Year is a reflection not only of statistics and achievements but also of respect earned on the field.
The 2018 CAF/FIFPro Team of the Year provided a high benchmark, featuring some of Africa’s brightest stars. The lineup included Denis Onyango of Uganda guarding the goal, a defensive quartet of Serge Aurier (Ivory Coast), Mehdi Benatia (Morocco), Eric Bailly (Ivory Coast), and Kalidou Koulibaly (Senegal). The midfield boasted the talents of Thomas Partey (Ghana), Naby Keita (Guinea), and Ryad Mahrez (Algeria), while the attacking trio consisted of Sadio Mané (Senegal), Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang (Gabon), and Mohamed Salah (Egypt). This mix of experience, skill, and individual brilliance set the standard for future selections, highlighting Africa’s ability to produce world-class footballers who shine both on the continent and abroad.
As the 2019 awards approach, anticipation is building for the new African XI. Many top players from Africa’s domestic leagues and international stages are expected to feature, reflecting standout performances throughout the year in club and national competitions. In addition to the Team of the Year, the CAF Awards will also celebrate other top achievements, including Player of the Year, Young Player of the Year, and Coach of the Year. These accolades collectively showcase the depth of talent across African football and serve to inspire the next generation of players.
The 2019 African XI, along with all other award winners, will be officially unveiled on January 7, 2020, in Hurghada, Egypt. This event promises a glamorous celebration of African football excellence, bringing together players, coaches, officials, and fans to recognize the achievements that define the sport across the continent. With the high level of competition and a wealth of talent to choose from, the announcement of the African XI remains one of the most eagerly awaited moments on the CAF calendar.
