Super Eagles defender William Troost-Ekong, the 2023 AFCON Most Valuable Player (MVP), expressed his pleasure after being shortlisted for the 2024 CAF Men’s Player of the Year award.
Shortly after the announcement, Troost-Ekong shared the nomination graphic on his social media handle with a easy caption: “HONOURED.”
Troost-Ekong’s nomination comes as recognition of his excellent efficiency throughout Nigeria’s journey to the AFCON last, the place the Super Eagles narrowly misplaced to Ivory Coast.
Nigerian Stars Lead the Race for Top Honour
Both William Troost-Ekong and Ademola Lookman have been included within the last shortlist for the celebrated award, giving Nigeria hope of securing the title for the second consecutive 12 months.
Following Victor Osimhen’s historic win in 2023—turning into the primary Nigerian to earn the award in 25 years—Troost-Ekong and Lookman now have the possibility to proceed Nigeria’s current success on the continental stage.
Lookman Favourite for CAF Player of the Year
Ademola Lookman is broadly tipped because the front-runner for the award, because of his spectacular performances for each Atalanta and Nigeria.
Lookman made historical past by scoring a hat-trick within the Europa League last, main Atalanta to their first-ever European title.
The winger additionally performed an important function in Nigeria’s run to the AFCON last, cementing his standing as one in all Africa’s prime gamers.
His stellar type has already earned him a Ballon d’Or nomination, mirroring Osimhen’s achievements and making him a robust contender for this 12 months’s CAF Player of the Year award.
Troost-Ekong’s Leadership Recognised
Troost-Ekong additionally loved a standout 12 months, highlighted by his MVP efficiency on the 2023 AFCON, the place he scored two targets and captained Nigeria to the ultimate. His management on and off the pitch earned him a well-deserved spot among the many prime African footballers.
Other Nominees Competing for the Award
Troost-Ekong and Lookman will face stiff competitors from different notable African stars, together with:
- Simon Adingra – AFCON last hero
- Ronwen Williams – South Africa
- Achraf Hakimi – Morocco
- Serhou Guirassy – Borussia Dortmund
The CAF Player of the Year award ceremony is scheduled to happen on 16 December 2024 in Marrakech, Morocco.
