CAF Awards 2024: The Men's Player of the Year nominees revealed

By Robert Mutasi 

The highly-awaited Confederation of African Football Awards 2024 have unveiled their shortlist to compete for the prestigious Men's Player of the Year award.

This list comprises ten incredible footballers from the expansive African continent, hence boasting some of the best talents in African and world football.

As such, considering that these players have performed fabulously for their clubs and countries throughout this year, the competition for this year's top prize is tougher than ever.

First in the list of the nominees is Amine Gouiri, an outstanding forward who has impressed many with his technical ability on the pitch and his goal-scoring prowess.

Gouiri, from Algeria, has been in the headlines due to his clinical finishing and consistency in different domestic and international competitions.

Given that he has been instrumental to the success of his club, he will likely remain a favorite among the voters.

Another serious contender is powerful Burkinabé defender Edmond Tapsoba.

Equally commanding at the back, Tapsoba has been an immovable rock both for his national team and his club, playing an integral role in the rear guard.

His leadership qualities coupled with his defensive acumen have earned him a place among the top defenders in African football.

Coming from Côte d'Ivoire is Simon Adingra, who has also earned a nomination after a sterling season where he had shown his versatility and creativity. 

Whether playing as a winger or attacking midfielder, Adingra has been a constant threat to opposition defenses with his pace and dribbling ability.

Others include the Democratic Republic of Congo representative Chancel Mbemba, who has been consistent at the back as a central defender.

Mbemba has proved a rock, using his experience and tactical acuity to fine effect.

Serhou Guirassy's goal-scoring exploits this season saw him as one of the most prolific strikers this season, and he has earned a place from Guinea.

His knack for finding the back of the net has made him an indispensable entity for club and country, and he will be one to watch once the competition unfolds.

Another big name in the list is that of Achraf Hakimi, the dynamic Moroccan full-back.

The years seem to have transformed Hakimi into one of the best right-backs in world football, combining pace and technical capability with defensive robustness; contributions at both ends of the pitch have secured his place in the hearts of any fan's heart.

Other nominees are Soufiane Rahimi (Morocco), Ademola Lookman (Nigeria), William Troost-Ekong (Nigeria), and Ronwen Williams (South Africa), each with an outstanding year behind him.

The CAF Men's Player of the Year Award celebrates the cream of African football talent, and this year's nominees are testimony to the growing influence of African players in the global football milieu. 

These will be joined by the remainder of the shortlisted players at the CAF Awards ceremony, where the winner will be announced as the best in Africa for 2024.