CAF Awards 2026: Mané, Hakimi, Pape Gueye… who are the 10 nominees for the Player of the Year?

The Confederation of African Football (CAF) unveiled the list of ten players nominated for the 2026 African Player of the Year award.

Senegal and Morocco dominate the shortlist with three representatives each. For the Lions of Teranga, Sadio Mané, Ismaïla Sarr and Pape Gueye are among the contenders for this prestigious award. Morocco is also well represented with Achraf Hakimi, Ismael Saibari and Brahim Diaz.

As the winner of the 2025 edition, Achraf Hakimi is therefore in the running to retain his title. However, the competition looks set to be fierce, with several players hoping to add their names to the roll of honour for this major African football award. The winner will be announced next December at the 2026 CAF Awards ceremony.

The list of nominated players:

• Yoane Wissa
• Antoine Semenyo
• Ismael Saibari
• Achraf Hakimi
• Brahim Diaz
• Ismaïla Sarr
• Pape Gueye
• Sadio Mané
• Teboho Mokoena