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The 2025 CAF Player of the Year race is shaping up to be one of the most fiercely contested in recent memory. At the heart of this heated battle are three African powerhouses – Egypt’s Mohamed Salah, Nigeria’s Victor Osimhen, and Morocco’s Achraf Hakimi – each of whom have turned in extraordinary performances for their clubs this season.
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With reigning winner Ademola Lookman not hitting the same heights as last year, the stage is set for a new king of African football to be crowned. But as CAF prepares to make its decision, the question remains: Who deserves it the most?
Mo Salah
Few players in world football embody consistency like Mohamed Salah. The Liverpool talisman once again proved his worth, delivering an exceptional season that saw him net 35 goals in all competitions and guide the Reds to English Premier League glory, finishing ahead of Manchester City in one of the tightest title races in recent years.
In addition to his trademark goal scoring prowess, Salah also clinched both the Golden Boot and Playmaker Award, underlining his dual threat as both a finisher and a creator. His leadership and experience were vital in navigating a wonderful campaign, as Liverpool clawed their way back to domestic supremacy.
While he may not have enjoyed continental success this year, Salah’s exploits in England are a reminder of his enduring brilliance.
Victor Osimhen
After a high-profile move to Turkey, Victor Osimhen made headlines for all the right reasons. The Nigerian forward lit up the Turkish Süper Lig, scoring 37 goals and leading his club to a domestic double—the league title and the Turkish Cup.
At 26, Osimhen is now in the prime of his career. This season, he added maturity and composure to his explosive attacking style. His goals came in all shapes and sizes—headers, volleys, penalties, and poacher’s tap-ins—cementing his status as one of Africa’s deadliest finishers.
Beyond the stats, Osimhen showed up in clutch moments, scoring in high-stakes matches and lifting his team when it mattered most. For many Nigerian fans, he is the clear heir to past legends like Rashidi Yekini and Nwankwo Kanu.
Achraf Hakimi
While attackers often steal the spotlight, Achraf Hakimi is making an irresistible case for defenders to get their flowers. The Paris Saint-Germain right-back has had a monumental season, helping PSG to a historic treble—Ligue 1, Coupe de France and then the UEFA Champions League after they crushed Inter Milan 5-0 on Saturday night.
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Hakimi’s attacking flair from the back was on full display, as he scored nine goals, many of them crucial, and contributed several assists. His tactical intelligence, relentless work rate, and composure in big matches have made him an indispensable part of PSG’s setup.
The Moroccan who scored the opening goal as his club clinched their first-ever Champions League title etched his name into the history books. Combined with his role in Morocco’s run to the 2022 FIFA World Cup semi-finals, his CV is as compelling as any in world football.
Who will win?
Beyond personal glory, the CAF Player of the Year award carries immense symbolic weight. It’s a moment of pride for nations, a celebration of African excellence, and a spotlight on talent that continues to influence football across the globe.
For Salah, a win would add to his already legendary status. For Osimhen, it would be a crowning moment in a career on the rise. For Hakimi, it would mark a rare triumph for defenders and North African football.
One thing is clear: whoever lifts the golden ball in 2025 will have earned it in a season defined by goals, trophies, and unforgettable performances.
So, who gets your vote—Salah, Osimhen, or Hakimi?
