Are you ready to discover the cream of the crop in African football? Join us as we take a deep dive into the best African players from the continent who are making waves around the world in 2023.
Europe has been graced by some of the best African players in recent history, from George Weah, Samuel Eto’o to Didier Drogba, and the list goes on. The continent has continuously produced more talents, promising a bright future ahead.
In this article, we take a closer look at the 10 greatest African players around the world in 2023. From their incredible skills on the pitch to their inspiring journeys to success, these players are sure to leave a mark on the beautiful game for years to come. So, without further ado, let’s dive in and explore the best of African football.
10. Wilfried Zaha (Galatasaray) 🇨🇮
When it comes to consistent African Premier League performers, Wilfried Zaha was a name that often got overlooked. But make no mistake, this guy has got the skills to pay the bills. Now, upon ending his second spell at Crystal Palace, Zaha has taken his talents to Galatasaray. The move will grant him a chance to prove himself in the Champions League football and to compete for domestic honors in Turkey.
9. Mohammed Kudus (West Ham United) 🇬ðŸ‡
Mohammed Kudus is a player with unquestionable talent. He’s the full package, capable of operating as a false nine, a winger, or in a midfield role. At just 23 years old, he’s already causing a stir, leading West Ham to pay Ajax €43 million for his services. This young Ghanaian, a product of the Right to Dream Academy, is an exciting prospect and already one of the best African players around. Any team would be lucky to have him.
8. Achraf Hakimi (PSG) 🇲🇦
When it comes to football, Achraf Hakimi is a player who’s done it all – well, at least in the club football scene. With multiple championships under his belt, the only thing missing in his stellar career is leading his nation, Morocco, to victory at AFCON. At just 24 years old, he’s already accomplished so much, having played for Real Madrid, Inter Milan, and now Paris Saint-Germain. It’s been an awesome ride for the talented full-back and we can’t wait to see what he does next!
7. Eric Maxim Choupo-Moting (Bayern Munich) 🇨🇲
Last year, Robert Lewandowski’s exit from Bayern Munich left a void in the team’s offense. But where there’s a void, there’s an opportunity. And Eric Maxim Choupo-Moting seized that opportunity like a true champion. With his impressive skill and determination, the striker scored an impressive 17 goals across all competitions. Unfortunately, injuries kept him from playing most of the second half of the season. But imagine what could have been if he had played more – would he have won the German Golden boot?
6. Samuel Chukwueze (AC Milan) 🇨🇲
Last season, Samuel Chukwueze made waves with a memorable brace against Real Madrid. The Nigerian winger had a stellar campaign for Villarreal, notching up impressive stats with 13 goals and 11 assists. His outstanding performance earned him a move to AC Milan in the summer. The Italian club secured his services for a whopping €20 million fee.
5. Riyad Mahrez (Manchester City) 🇩🇿
In a squad as competitive as Manchester City’s, securing a spot in the team can be a daunting task. However, Riyad Mahrez managed to cement his place in the team, and it’s not hard to see why. The Algerian had an impressive season in 2022/23, with 15 goals and 13 assists across all competitions in 2022/23. His contributions played a pivotal role in Pep Guardiola’s side achieving an incredible treble. He is now in Saudi Arabia, taking on a new challenge with Al Ahli.
4. Thomas Partey (Arsenal) 🇬ðŸ‡
After enduring a few injury-ridden seasons in London, Thomas Partey finally had the chance to showcase his talent on the pitch. And boy, did he deliver! The Ghanaian midfielder was instrumental in Arsenal’s unlikely title challenge in the Premier League, putting in consistently solid performances every week. Partey proved to be the beating heart of the Gunners’ midfield, and fans will hope for more of the same in 2023/24.
3. Sadio Mane (Al Nassr FC) 🇸🇳
The reigning African Footballer of the Year had a bit of a slow start during his only season at Bayern Munich, struggling to find his rhythm with the team. However, he proved to be an asset in helping the club secure another Bundesliga title. Although his performance in 2023 may not have been up to his usual high standards, there’s no denying that Sadio Mane belongs in the upper echelon of the best African players. He is now plying his trade at Saudi Arabian club Al Nassr.
2. Mohamed Salah (Liverpool) 🇪🇬
If you’re one of those people who still think Mohamed Salah is a selfish player, then you need to take a closer look at his stats. The Egyptian King has finished the last two seasons with double figures in the Premier League, proving he’s one of the best in the business. Even when Liverpool went off the rails in 2022/23, Salah remained unstoppable on the pitch. While putting him second among the best African players may seem like a bold choice, it just goes to show the sheer quality that’s coming out of the continent. So if you’re not already on the Salah hype train, it’s time to hop on board.
1. Victor Osimhen (Napoli) 🇳🇬
Victor Osimhen has been tearing it up on the pitch in 2023! With performances like his, it’s no wonder we rank him top of the best African players list. Sure, some may underestimate the power of this underdog, but let’s not forget his incredible achievements in Naples. Osimhen played an instrumental role in leading Napoli to their first Serie A title since the legendary Diego Maradona era in 1990. And if that’s not enough to impress you, he finished as the top scorer in the Italian league with an astonishing 26 goals!
“Mohamed Salah with UEFA Super Cup” by Mehdi Bolourian is licensed under CC BY 4.0.
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