African football continues to shine on the global stage, with players from the continent dominating top leagues and inspiring millions. In 2025, these athletes combine skill, consistency, and historic achievements to stand out as the best. Let’s explore the top 10 African soccer stars making waves this year.
1. Mohamed Salah (Egypt, Liverpool FC)
Mohamed Salah remains Africa’s most iconic footballer. The “Egyptian King” has scored 21 goals and 17 assists in 29 matches for Liverpool this season, maintaining his reputation as one of Europe’s deadliest forwards. Salah recently surpassed Frank Lampard to become the 6th-highest scorer in Premier League history with 177 goals. His electrifying pace, precise finishing, and leadership have kept Liverpool in title contention, and he’s a strong candidate for the 2025 Ballon d’Or. Salah’s legacy extends beyond the pitch—he’s a symbol of pride for Egypt and African football.
Career Highlights:
- Five-time Premier League Golden Boot contender
- Led Egypt to three Africa Cup of Nations finals
- Liverpool’s all-time top scorer in the Champions League
2. Victor Osimhen (Nigeria, Galatasaray SK)
Victor Osimhen’s loan move to Galatasaray revitalized his career after a rocky spell at Napoli. The Nigerian striker has netted 13 goals in 17 Süper Lig games, showcasing his aerial dominance and clinical finishing. Osimhen’s physicality and work rate make him a nightmare for defenders. He’s also the heartbeat of Nigeria’s national team, leading their charge in the 2025 AFCON qualifiers.
Career Highlights:
- Serie A Top Scorer (2022/23)
- Named African Footballer of the Year (2023)
- Scored 35 goals for Napoli during their Scudetto-winning season
3. Ademola Lookman (Nigeria, Atalanta BC)
Ademola Lookman, the reigning African Footballer of the Year, has been unstoppable. With 12 goals and 6 assists in 24 matches, he propelled Atalanta to a historic UEFA Europa League title in 2024, scoring a hat-trick in the final. His dribbling, creativity, and clutch performances earned him a Ballon d’Or nomination. Lookman’s rise from Premier League struggler to Serie A superstar is a testament to his resilience.
Career Highlights:
- First Nigerian to win UEFA Europa League Player of the Season
- Scored 22 goals across all competitions in 2024
- Key player in Nigeria’s 2025 AFCON qualifying campaign
4. Amad Diallo (Ivory Coast, Manchester United)
Amad Diallo’s breakout season at Manchester United has been a revelation. The Ivorian winger scored a 12-minute hat-trick against Southampton, becoming the youngest United player to achieve this feat since Wayne Rooney. With 13 goals and 7 assists, his versatility and flair have made him indispensable. Diallo’s $40 million transfer from Atalanta now looks like a bargain.
Career Highlights:
- UEFA Europa League winner with Atalanta (2023)
- Named Premier League Player of the Month (January 2025)
- Signed a contract extension with United until 2030
5. Serhou Guirassy (Guinea, Borussia Dortmund)
Serhou Guirassy’s decision to represent Guinea internationally has paid off. The Borussia Dortmund striker has 13 goals in 21 Bundesliga matches, using his strength and positioning to outwit defenders. Guirassy’s late-game heroics, including a 90th-minute winner against Bayern Munich, have cemented his status as one of Europe’s most reliable forwards.
Career Highlights:
- Bundesliga’s second-highest scorer (2023/24)
- Named to CAF’s Team of the Year (2024)
- Key player in Guinea’s first-ever World Cup qualification (2026)
6. Nicolas Jackson (Senegal, Chelsea FC)
Nicolas Jackson is Chelsea’s bright spot in a challenging season. The Senegalese forward has 9 goals and 4 assists in 21 Premier League games, blending speed with intelligent link-up play. Jackson’s adaptability under manager Mauricio Pochettino hints at a superstar in the making.
Career Highlights:
- Senegal’s Young Player of the Year (2023)
- Scored a hat-trick against Tottenham Hotspur (2024)
- Helped Chelsea reach the FA Cup final (2025)
7. Thomas Partey (Ghana, Arsenal FC)
Thomas Partey is the engine of Arsenal’s midfield. Though his stats (2 goals, 2 assists) seem modest, his 87% pass accuracy and 4.3 tackles per game highlight his defensive mastery. Partey’s ability to control the tempo has been vital in Arsenal’s Premier League title race.
Career Highlights:
- Premier League Team of the Season (2023/24)
- Won La Liga and Europa League with Atlético Madrid
- Named Ghana’s Player of the Decade (2020s)
8. Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang (Gabon, Al-Qadsiah)
At 35, Aubameyang remains Gabon’s talisman. The striker has 9 goals in 17 Saudi Pro League games, proving age hasn’t dulled his instincts. Aubameyang’s leadership and experience are invaluable for both club and country.
Career Highlights:
- Premier League Golden Boot winner (2018/19)
- UEFA Europa League Top Scorer (2023/24)
- Gabon’s all-time leading scorer (35 goals)
9. Achraf Hakimi (Morocco, Paris Saint-Germain)
Achraf Hakimi redefines the modern full-back. The Moroccan star has 5 assists and 2 goals for PSG, combining defensive grit with attacking flair. His performances were pivotal in Morocco’s 2026 World Cup qualification.
Career Highlights:
- Champions League winner with Real Madrid (2022)
- Named CAF Best Defender (2023, 2024)
- Scored the winning goal in the 2025 AFCON qualifiers
10. Brahim Diaz (Morocco, Real Madrid)
Brahim Diaz, who switched allegiance from Spain to Morocco, is Real Madrid’s creative spark. With 8 goals and 4 assists, his dribbling and vision have drawn comparisons to Luka Modrić. Diaz’s 93rd-minute winner against Lesotho in World Cup qualifying showcased his clutch gene.
Career Highlights:
- La Liga Young Player of the Season (2024)
- Scored in El Clásico (2025)
- Key player in Morocco’s rise to 3rd in FIFA rankings
Conclusion
From record-breakers like Mohamed Salah to rising stars like Amad Diallo, African players continue to elevate global football. Their journeys—marked by resilience and brilliance—inspire the next generation. As the 2025 AFCON and World Cup approach, these athletes are poised to write new chapters in football history.