Guinean supporters express rising anger ahead of Wednesday’s CAF Awards after Sehrou Guirassy failed to make the final shortlist for African Player of the Year.
The decision shifted focus from the ceremony in Rabat to a dispute that now dominates discussion across several countries.
The final three contenders—Mohamed Salah, Achraf Hakimi, and Victor Osimhen—prepare to compete for the top honour.
Many observers, however, insist that Guirassy’s omission defies logic.
His record across the season highlights a level of consistency and dominance that placed him among Europe’s most prolific forwards.
He finished as the Champions League Golden Boot winner, scored more goals than any African player in Europe, became the second-highest scorer in the Bundesliga, led the scoring charts at the Club World Cup, earned a place among FIFA’s top-rated forwards, and ranked 21st in the Ballon d’Or standings.
Guirassy’s brother, Karamba, described the decision as a “shame” and questioned how such achievements could fail to secure a place among the finalists.
Guinean media reacted with a unified voice, expressing disbelief and frustration. Outlets such as Guinea 28 and Guinea News criticised the selection and argued that the process lacked clarity.
Germany’s Bild added weight to the debate by highlighting the striker’s exceptional numbers.
Across Guinea, fans argue that the criteria appear inconsistent and dismiss a season that surpassed those of some finalists.
Many point specifically to Osimhen, noting that although the Nigerian forward delivered a strong year, his statistics did not match Guirassy’s output.
Social media, television discussions, and regional commentary continue to amplify the controversy.
Analysts describe the decision as a missed opportunity to recognise one of Africa’s most in-form strikers.
As the ceremony approaches, the debate shows no sign of slowing, and the sense of injustice felt in Guinea grows louder.
AFCON 2025: Fixtures, Results, Scores and Standings Jan 18, 2026
