CAF Announces Nominees for 2025 African Player of the Year: Osimhen, Salah, and Hakimi in Contention

The Confederation of African Football (CAF) has released the 10-member shortlist for the 2025 CAF Men’s Player of the Year award, featuring three top players from Africa: Victor Osimhen from Nigeria, Mohamed Salah from Egypt, and Achraf Hakimi from Morocco.

CAF Men’s Player of the Year Nominees:

• Frank Anguissa (Cameroon, Napoli)
• Fiston Mayele (DR Congo, Pyramids FC)
• Mohamed Salah (Egypt, Liverpool)
• Denis Bouanga (Gabon, Los Angeles FC)
• Serhou Guirassy (Guinea, Borussia Dortmund)
• Achraf Hakimi (Morocco, Paris Saint-Germain)
• Oussama Lamlouhi (Tunisia, Étoile du Sahel)
• Victor Osimhen (Nigeria, Galatasaray)
• Iliman Ndiaye (Senegal, Everton)
• Pape Matar Sarr (Senegal, Tottenham).

Osimhen, Salah, and Hakimi Lead the Race for Africa’s Top Honor

Victor Osimhen (Nigeria, Galatasaray)

Osimhen, who played last season on loan at Galatasaray from Napoli, is Nigeria’s only nominee. He had a fantastic season, helping Galatasaray win both the Turkish Süper Lig and the Turkish Cup. The striker finished with 37 goals and 8 assists in all competitions and was named Turkish League Player of the Season.

Mohamed Salah (Egypt, Liverpool)

Salah also had an impressive year, leading both the scoring and assist charts in the Premier League. He scored 29 goals and provided 18 assists, winning both the Golden Boot and Playmaker Award. His contributions were vital in Liverpool winning the league title.

Achraf Hakimi (Morocco, Paris Saint-Germain)

Hakimi had a standout season with Paris Saint-Germain, playing a crucial role in the team’s success. He helped PSG achieve a quadruple by winning the UEFA Champions League, Ligue 1, Coupe de France, and the Trophée des Champions. As a defender, he scored 9 goals and assisted 14, showcasing his offensive skills.