Moroccan defender Achraf Hakimi, Nigerian forward Victor Osimhen, and Egyptian star Mohamed Salah have been shortlisted as the final three contenders for the 2025 African Men’s Player of the Year award, the Confederation of African Football (CAF) announced. This prestigious award celebrates the continent’s top football talent based on performances from January to October 2025.
Hakimi, who captained Morocco and played a key role in Paris Saint-Germain’s UEFA Champions League victory and domestic treble in the 2024–25 season, stands out as the only defender on the shortlist. Osimhen earned his nomination thanks to his impressive form leading Galatasaray to the Turkish league title during his debut season. Salah continues to be a formidable force with Liverpool, securing the Premier League Golden Boot and making significant contributions to Egypt’s national team.
The winner will be revealed at the CAF Awards ceremony scheduled for November 19, 2025, in Rabat, Morocco. This event honors not only players but also coaches, clubs, and national teams that have shown exceptional performance across African and international football.
The selection process involved a panel of experts including CAF Technical Committee members, former players, coaches, and media professionals who assessed players’ impact across club and country competitions. Hakimi, Osimhen, and Salah’s inclusion underscores their stellar seasons and importance on the continental stage.