Each year, sports journalists across Africa are tasked with nominating their candidate for the BBC African Footballer of the Year award. The five with the most votes make it onto the shortlist but it’s up to the fans to decide who walks away with the prestigious award.
Last year’s champion, Riyhad Mahrez, did not make the shortlist but below are the nominees for the BBC African Footballer of 2017.
Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang
The Borussia Dortmund and Gabon forward has scored 40 goals in all competitions in 2017 and won the German Cup with Dortmund.
Despite the success at club level, the 28-year-old has had a woeful year while on national duty. Gabon became the fourth country to exit the African Cup of nations and the forward managed two goals in three games.
Former Barcelona star, Emanuel Amuneke on Aubameyang being shortlisted: “I think we are in an era where it is a privilege to see a player like this.”
Sadio Mane
The Liverpool and Senegal forward scored 13 goals for Liverpool last season making it his best tally in the Premier League.
At the national level, the 25-year-old helped Senegal qualify for world Cup since 2002 after providing a sensational through-ball for Sakho to net the first of the two goals that saw Senegal beat South Africa 2-0.
Mohamed Salah
The Liverpool and Egyptian forward has racked up seven goals in 11 Premier League appearances and five goals in six games in the champions league for Liverpool this season. Before joining Liverpool, he scored 15 times and provided 11 assists for Roma in Serie A.
The 25-year-old can also be credited for taking Egypt to the world cup as it was his penalty against Congo that sealed their qualification.
Victor Moses
The Chelsea and Nigerian midfielder finally sealed his berth at Chelsea after several loan spells. He became an integral part of Conte’s team and went on to win the Premier League title. He was also part of the Chelsea team that lost to Arsenal in the finals of the FA Cup.
On National duty, the 26-year-old has not made many appearances but scored in the 4-0 win against Cameroon that saw Nigeria seal their spot in the world cup.
Naby Keita
Arguably one of the best midfielders from Africa, the RB Leipzig and Guinean midfielder has been a revelation. He makes fantastic runs, tackles, and scores sensational goals. He made the Bundesliga team of the year – an honor bestowed by a public vote – as he helped RB Leipzig to a shocking second-place finish.
Keita scored in the world Cup qualifiers for Guinea against Libya and Tunisia but the country met stronger opposition that saw Guinea fail to qualify.
Featured Photo: BBC
