Three Moroccan players in contention
The Confederation of African Football has named Achraf Hakimi, Brahim Diaz and Ismael Saibari among the ten nominees for the 2026 Men’s African Player of the Year award. Hakimi is the reigning holder of the prize, while Diaz and Saibari add to Morocco’s presence on the shortlist.
What the nominations represent
The list also includes Senegal’s Sadio Mane, Pape Gueye and Ismaila Sarr, alongside Antoine Semenyo, Amad Diallo, Yoane Wissa and Teboho Mokoena. The recognition reflects international and club performances during a year marked by the 2026 FIFA World Cup and African competitions. Nominations are not a prediction of the winner.
When the winners will be announced
According to CAF, the awards ceremony is scheduled for 7 December 2026 in Lagos, Nigeria. Supporters can check the confederation’s official announcement for the complete nominees and other award categories.
Source and editorial note
Read the original reporting or official announcement. This independent summary is based on the cited coverage, current as of 12 November 2026.
Featured image: conceptual AI illustration; not a photograph of the real event.
