Mali legend Frederic Kanoute has tipped Nigerian forward Ademola Lookman among the favourites to win the 2024 CAF Africa Player of the Year award, Soccernet.ng reports.
Victor Osimhen claimed the honour last year after his excellent performances helped Napoli lift the Scudetto for the first time in over 30 years.
Osimhen, the first Nigerian in 24 years to be named Africa’s Best, will once again be among the contenders this year following his decent showing for the Super Eagles at the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations.
However, compatriot Lookman has a better shot at the award after his brilliant hat-trick powered Atalanta to glory in the Europa League – the club’s first-ever continental trophy.
Ghana international striker Inaki Williams will also fancy his chances of winning the prestigious award after another impressive year in Spain.
The exciting forward scored 12 La Liga goals and inspired Athletic Bilbao to lift the Copa del Rey – the club’s first title in 40 years.
And 2007 Africa Best Kanoute is convinced that Lookman and Williams have done enough to join Liverpool superstar Mohamed Salah on the podium for this year’s honour.
“I would say it is difficult to [name my top three African players]. I am thinking about Inaki Williams who had a fantastic season with Athletic Bilbao. It’s difficult for me to give names but maybe I will say Ademola Lookman, Mohamed Salah, and Inaki Williams,” Kanoute said, as quoted by 3 Sports.
However, Nigeria international Victor Boniface will be convinced he has also been one of the best African players in the world over the past twelve months.
Boniface played a crucial role as Bayer Leverkusen ended their long wait for glory with triumphs in the Bundesliga and the German Cup. Leverkusen won the two titles without losing a game while also reaching the final of the Europa League.
For his troubles, Boniface was voted the Bundesliga Rookie of the Season and he was selected into the league’s Team of the Season.
NB: Who has a better chance at winning the Africa Player of the Year between Lookman and Boniface? Leave your answers in the comment section below, please.
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