Édouard Mendy has officially been crowned the winner of the Jules François Bocandé Trophy 2025, awarded to the best Senegalese footballer playing abroad.
The National Association of Sports Press of Senegal (ANPS) confirmed the result this morning after votes from 34 media outlets across the country. Mendy earned 162 votes, finishing ahead of Tottenham’s Pape Matar Sarr, who received 116, and Chelsea forward Nicolas Jackson, who collected 109.
Mendy’s remarkable season with Al-Ahli and the Senegal national team earned him widespread recognition. His consistency, leadership, and reliability made him a standout performer throughout the campaign. He played a decisive role in Senegal’s qualification for both the Africa Cup of Nations and the World Cup.
At club level, Mendy helped Al-Ahli lift the Saudi Super Cup, producing outstanding saves in crucial moments. His heroics in the final earned him the Best Goalkeeper award, further confirming his elite form. The Senegalese shot-stopper combined composure, reflexes, and experience to deliver under pressure.
This triumph marks Mendy’s second Jules François Bocandé Trophy, following his first win in 2021. His ability to maintain top form over several seasons reflects his commitment and professionalism. The award honours the late Senegalese legend Jules François Bocandé, a national icon who inspired generations of players.
Mendy succeeds Nicolas Jackson, who claimed the previous edition of the award. His return to the top spot highlights his sustained impact on Senegalese football and his continued excellence abroad.
The ANPS also announced that five major awards will be presented this year. These include honours for the best wrestler with striking, the best wrestler without striking, the best local footballer, the best footballer abroad, and the best Senegalese athlete across all disciplines.
For Édouard Mendy, this award recognises another chapter in an impressive career defined by determination, resilience, and leadership on and off the pitch.
