CAF Awards 2026: Regragui and Desabre among coaches shortlisted for top prize

The Confederation of African Football (CAF) has announced the nominees for the 2026 Men’s Coach of the Year award, with the shortlist featuring managers from national teams and leading African clubs.

The 10-coach shortlist was revealed on 4 November 2026 as part of the CAF Awards 2026. It includes Lamine N’Diaye of USM Alger, Pedro Leitao Brito, known as Bubista, of Cape Verde, Sebastien Desabre of DR Congo, Hossam Hassan of Egypt, Moatamed Gamal of Zamalek, Alexandre Santos of AS FAR, Mohamed Ouahbi of Morocco, Walid Regragui of Morocco, Pape Thiaw of Senegal and Miguel Cardoso of Mamelodi Sundowns.

The selection brings together experienced coaches and managers whose recent work has attracted attention in African football. Some were recognised for their performances with national teams, while others were included for their results in continental competitions and domestic leagues.

Morocco leads the nominations

Morocco has the strongest representation, with three coaches included in the category. Regragui, Ouahbi and Santos are all in contention, reflecting the country’s influence at both international and club level.

Egypt has two representatives in Hossam Hassan and Moatamed Gamal. Senegal is represented by Pape Thiaw, while Bubista is the only nominee from Cape Verde.

Bubista, who guided Cape Verde to the 2025 award, is among the coaches attracting particular attention. His latest nomination recognises the work he has continued to carry out with the Blue Sharks.

National-team and club coaches in contention

Desabre, the head coach of DR Congo, is nominated after making an impression on the international stage. Thiaw also features following his spell in charge of Senegal, where his work earned widespread recognition.

Hossam Hassan is another national-team coach in the running for the award, representing Egypt in a field that combines international and club football.

The club coaches completing the selection are Lamine N’Diaye, Moatamed Gamal, Alexandre Santos and Miguel Cardoso. Their inclusion highlights the different routes to recognition within African football, from domestic success to performances in continental competition.

The winner will be announced on 7 December 2026 at the CAF Awards ceremony in Lagos, Nigeria. The nominees are seeking recognition for their work and results during the eligibility period.