Football in Africa has seen a tremendous metamorphosis over the years, with African players performing well on the world’s largest stages. African football is on the rise, as seen by the increasing number of players that dominate top leagues, earn individual accolades, and impact the worldwide game with their distinct style.
This rating is based on numerous aspects, including current season performance, individual contributions to club and nation, consistency, and overall influence. These players not only excel statistically, but they also inspire a new generation of African talent with their incredible stories and accomplishments.
From record-breaking goal scorers to creative midfield maestros and defensive stalwarts, the players listed below represent Africa’s best in 2025. Their adventures, driven by hard effort and commitment, demonstrate the continent’s expanding impact in football.
Let’s look at the top ten African players that are now shining brightly in the world of football.
1. Mohamed Salah (Egypt; Liverpool FC)
Mohamed Salah, also dubbed as the “Egyptian King,” is still one of the most feared strikers in international football. Salah has a remarkable 21 goals and 17 assists in 29 appearances, demonstrating his capacity to influence contests. His vision, accurate finishing, and leadership have made him invaluable to Liverpool, and he’s a strong contender for the 2025 Ballon d’Or. Salah continues to be a beacon of optimism and pride for Egyptian football fans and African players around the world.
2. Ademola Lookman (Nigeria, Atlanta BC)
The reigning African Player of the Year has enjoyed another spectacular season. Ademola Lookman has been a bright spot for Atalanta, tallying 12 goals and six assists in 24 games. His direct style of play, paired with his inventiveness and flair, makes him a nightmare for opposing defences. Lookman is an example of how Nigerian players are dominating Europe’s top divisions.
3. Victor Osimhen (Nigeria, Galatasaray SK
Despite a mid-season squabble with Napoli, Osimhen’s loan move to Galatasaray has allowed him to thrive again. His devastating finishing has resulted in 13 goals and 5 assists in just 17 appearances. Osimhen, known for his speed, aerial skill, and elegance in front of goal, is a talisman for both his club and the Nigeria national team. His performances in Turkey have sparked speculation regarding his future in Europe’s top divisions.
4. Amad Diallo (Ivory Coast/Manchester United)
Amad Diallo, a young, dynamic, and talented player, has taken Manchester United by storm this season. Diallo just set a record with a 12-minute hat-trick, highlighting his importance to the struggling United team. Diallo has been a light of hope for fans, scoring 13 goals and assisting seven times. As a member of Ivory Coast’s next generation, he is destined for success.
5. Serhou Guirassy (Guinea; Borussia Dortmund)
Guirassy has demonstrated why he is one of the Bundesliga’s best strikers since transferring his international allegiance from France to Guinea. In 21 games for Borussia Dortmund, he has 13 goals and three assists. His physicality, intelligent placement, and ability to score in vital situations have made him indispensable. Guirassy’s decision to represent Guinea internationally has been a huge boost to African football.
6. Nicolas Jackson (Senegal; Chelsea FC)
Jackson is consistently demonstrating his worth in Chelsea’s high-pressure atmosphere. With nine goals and four assists in 21 appearances, the Senegalese attacker has showed glimpses of his enormous potential. His ability to connect up play and score is a huge asset for Chelsea, who are rebuilding under Mauricio Pochettino.
7. Thomas Partey (Ghana; Arsenal FC)
Thomas Partey, one of the few defensive players on this list, is a dominant midfielder. Though his two goals and two assists are modest, his true value resides in his defensive work rate and ability to control games from the centre of the pitch. Partey’s efforts have been essential to Arsenal’s title challenge this season, and he remains one of the greatest African midfielders in the world.
8. André Onana (Cameroon/Manchester United)
André Onana, Manchester United’s custodian, has proven to be the backbone of their defence. He has preserved six clean sheets, and his exceptional reflexes and ball distribution abilities have aided the Red Devils in critical games. Onana represents a new breed of goalkeepers capable of more than just saving shots, making him one of Africa’s best exports.
9. Achraf Hakimi (Morocco; Paris Saint-Germain)
Achraf Hakimi continues to thrive for Paris Saint-Germain, establishing himself as one of the world’s greatest right-backs. Hakimi’s offensive contributions from defence are impressive, with three goals and seven assists in 23 appearances. His versatility and consistency make him an indispensable player for both PSG and Morocco.
10. Victor Boniface (Nigeria; Bayer 04 Leverkusen).
While Victor Boniface hasn’t reached the heights of last season, his 8 goals and 1 assist for Bayer Leverkusen demonstrate a player of enormous promise. Boniface is a worker in attack, and his ability to lead the line benefits both club and country.
Notable mentions.
Edmond Tapsoba (Burkina Faso; Bayer 04 Leverkusen): Tapsoba, the cornerstone of Bayer Leverkusen’s defence, is a reliable performer who rarely makes a mistake.
Mohammed Kudus (Ghana, West Ham United): Kudus has adjusted well to the Premier League, demonstrating his technical ability and scoring crucial goals for the Hammers.
