African Football’s Biggest Honour: Who Deserves the Top Prize?
The African Player of the Year award is one of the most prestigious individual honours in African football. With the next edition approaching, the debate is heating up!
Two names are currently leading the charge: Ademola Lookman and Brahimi Diaz. Both have had incredible seasons, but only one can take home the coveted award.
Join the discussion and share your thoughts!
Who do you think deserves the African Player of the Year award?
What have been the standout moments for Lookman and Brahimi Diaz this season?
Are there any other players who should be in the running?
Share your opinions and let’s crown the best African player of the year!
The race for the 2024 African Player of the Year Award is highly competitive, with several standout candidates emerging based on their performances in both club and international football.
Leading Contenders
Ademola Lookman (Nigeria)
Lookman has had a remarkable year, contributing significantly to Atalanta’s success in Serie A and the Europa League. He scored a hat-trick in the Europa League final, leading his team to a 3-0 victory over Bayer Leverkusen, and was instrumental in Nigeria’s run to the finals of the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON), where they finished as runners-up. His total goal contributions for the season stand at 22, making him a strong favorite for the award.
Brahim Diaz (Morocco)
Diaz, who recently switched international allegiance from Spain to Morocco, has also been impressive. He helped Real Madrid secure multiple titles, including the UEFA Champions League and La Liga, while scoring 14 goals and providing 9 assists across all competitions last season. His performances have positioned him as one of the frontrunners alongside Lookman.
Mohamed Salah (Egypt)
The two-time winner Salah remains a significant contender despite not reaching his usual scoring heights this season. He has still managed to contribute 39 goals in all competitions for Liverpool, showcasing his enduring quality.
Victor Boniface (Nigeria)
Boniface had an outstanding season with Bayer Leverkusen, helping them clinch their first Bundesliga title in over a century. He scored 19 goals and provided 10 assists, totalling 29 goal contributions.
Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang (Gabon)
Aubameyang has been a key player for Olympique Marseille, contributing 28 goals and 11 assists despite a challenging domestic campaign. His performances in Europe have kept him in contention for the award.
Ademola Lookman is currently viewed as the frontrunner due to his pivotal role in both club and national team successes this year. His achievements in major competitions have set him apart from his peers, making him a likely candidate to succeed Victor Osimhen as Africa’s best player.