CAF announces 2024 African Player of the Year ceremony as Lookman, Boniface chase Osimhen’s crown

The Confederation of African Football (CAF) has confirmed that the 2024 African Player of the Year Awards will take place on December 16, 2024, in the picturesque city of Marrakech, Morocco, Soccernet.ng reports.

This is the third consecutive year the North African nation will host the prestigious event, following last year’s glittering ceremony.

CAF made the announcement on its social media platforms, stating, “It’s this time of the year again. #CAFAwards2024. December 16. Marrakech, Morocco. Mark your calendars.”

The annual CAF Awards celebrate outstanding performances by players and teams in both club and national competitions.

The African Player of the Year in the men’s and women’s categories remains the highlight of the night.

Victor Osimhen, the current holder of the men’s award, secured his first honour last year after an exceptional season with Napoli in Serie A.

However, the Nigerian striker is likely to relinquish the title following a comparatively quiet 2023/24 season with both Napoli and the Nigerian national team.

Among the favourites to succeed him is fellow Nigerian forward Ademola Lookman, who enjoyed a stellar season with Atalanta and the Super Eagles.

Lookman played a pivotal role in helping Nigeria reach the final of the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations and inspired Atalanta to their historic Europa League triumph.

Another strong contender is Victor Boniface, whose remarkable form for Bayer Leverkusen saw him lead the German side to their first-ever league and cup double.

Other notable names include Morocco’s Real Madrid winger Brahim Diaz and Borussia Dortmund’s prolific striker Serhou Guirassy.

In addition to the Men’s Player of the Year award, other categories include Youth Player of the Year, Club of the Year, Goalkeeper of the Year, and Coach of the Year.