BY ROSEMARY UGIOMOH
The CAF Player of the Year award is one of the most prestigious individual honours in African football, and this year’s contest promises to be a thrilling one. The top three nominees are Achraf Hakimi, Mohamed Salah, and Victor Osimhen, three of the continent’s brightest stars who have made a significant impact in their respective clubs abroad.
Achraf Hakimi, also known as the Moroccan Maestro has had an incredible season with Paris Saint-Germain, winning the Champions League, French League, French Cup, and European Super Cup. His impressive performances have earned him a spot among the top three nominees. Hakimi’s versatility and influence on the pitch has made him a key player for PSG, 
and his leadership has been instrumental in Morocco’s qualification for the 2026 World Cup.
Mohamed Salah, the Egyptian King is a two-time winner of the CAF Player of the Year award, and he’s back in the running for a third title. The Egyptian superstar has been in top form for Liverpool, scoring 29 goals and providing 18 assists in the Premier League. Salah’s contributions have been crucial in Liverpool’s record-equalling 20th league championship, and he’s also helped Egypt qualify for the 2026 World Cup.
Victor James Osimhen- The Nigerian Goal Machine has been on fire for Galatasaray, scoring 37 goals in 41 appearances in the 2024/25 season. The Nigerian striker has been instrumental in Galatasaray’s Turkish league and cup double, and his performances have earned him a spot among the top three nominees. Osimhen is looking to become the first Nigerian player to win the award back-to-back since Rashidi Yekini.
Other notable players in the competition include Fiston Mayele, Mohamed Chibi, and Oussama Lamlioui, who are vying for the Interclub Player of the Year award.
In the Goalkeeper of the Year category, Munir Mohamedi, Yassine Bonou, and Ronwen Williams are the top contenders
This year’s CAF Player of the Year award promises to be a closely contested one, with all three nominees having had remarkable seasons.
Who will take home the trophy? The ceremony is taking place tonight in Rabat, Morocco, and it’s going to be a night to remember.
