Hakimi, Salah, Osimhen and Guirassy headline CAF African Player of the Year nominees

The Confederation of African Football has released the ten-man shortlist for the 2025 African Player of the Year award, recognising the continent’s top performers.

Each nominee earned his place through remarkable consistency and impact during the past season.

Morocco’s Achraf Hakimi stands out once again after another strong campaign with Paris Saint-Germain.

The Atlas Lions captain continues to deliver elite performances, leading both club and country with authority.

His leadership and drive keep Morocco among Africa’s most competitive sides.

Fellow Moroccan Oussama Lamloui joins the list after emerging as one of the most exciting new names in African football.

His breakout season confirmed his potential and ensured Morocco’s double representation in this year’s elite group.

Egypt’s Mohamed Salah continues his record-breaking run with Liverpool.

The forward remains one of Africa’s most influential players, combining consistency, precision, and class in every performance.

His presence among the nominees reinforces his reputation as one of the continent’s football icons.

Guinea’s Serhou Guirassy earned his spot after a stunning goal-scoring season in the Bundesliga.

His impressive form inspired pride across Guinea and made him one of Europe’s most prolific African strikers. Many view him as a serious contender for this year’s crown.

Nigeria’s Victor Osimhen also makes the list after another dominant campaign with Napoli.

His relentless energy, finishing power, and decisive goals maintain his reputation as one of Africa’s most lethal forwards.

His nomination keeps Nigeria well represented on the continental stage.

Senegal boasts two nominees: Iliman Ndiaye and Pape Matar Sarr.

Ndiaye’s creativity and sharp movement made him a crucial figure for both club and country, while Sarr’s midfield performances reflected maturity and tactical awareness beyond his age. Their inclusion highlights Senegal’s continued dominance in African football.

Cameroon’s Frank Anguissa earned recognition for his commanding presence in midfield. His consistency and leadership were vital in every competition he played.

Gabon’s Denis Bouanga also secured a place among the top ten after another season of high-intensity performances and key goals for club and country.

The Democratic Republic of Congo celebrates the inclusion of Fiston Mayele, who represents the growing strength of Congolese football.

His success symbolises the rise of players from Central Africa making a strong impact across the continent.

The 2025 CAF Awards promise one of the most competitive editions yet, with stars from across Africa vying for the ultimate individual honour.

CAF also announced nominees for other categories, including African Interclub Player, Young Player of the Year, and African Club of the Year.

Full List of African Player of the Year Nominees:

• Fiston Mayele (DR Congo)

• Denis Bouanga (Gabon)

• Mohamed Salah (Egypt)

• Achraf Hakimi (Morocco)

• Oussama Lamloui (Morocco)

• Serhou Guirassy (Guinea)

• Victor Osimhen (Nigeria)

• Iliman Ndiaye (Senegal)

• Pape Matar Sarr (Senegal)

• Frank Anguissa (Cameroon)