By Seyi Babalola
The rise of African footballers in European football over the past few years has been a significant development in the world of sport.
Their growing presence and contributions have been a phenomenon, giving Africans hope of making a niche in European football.
From Mohamed Salah’s breathtaking goals at Liverpool to Victor Osimhen’s electrifying runs for Galatasaray, African players are transforming the game, bringing a unique blend of African pride and panache to Europe’s top clubs.
Daily Sun brings to you five top football players of African descent making significant impacts in European football based on their performances, contributions, and recognition in major leagues.
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Mohamed Salah (Egypt)
Mohamed Salah, who plays for Liverpool in the English Premier League, has been a standout this season, scoring 29 goals and assisting 18 times in 29 league matches.
His outstanding pace, technical skill, and accurate finishing have fuelled Liverpool’s title run, winning him the FWA Footballer of the Year award for 2024/25.
He continues to set records and cement his reputation as one of Africa’s best players.
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Victor Osimhen (Nigeria)
Having completed his loan deal at Galatasaray from Napoli, Osimhen has continued to impress with his goal-scoring prowess, despite a challenging 2024 marked by injuries and transfer speculation.
His physicality and finishing make him a constant threat, and he remains a key figure for Nigeria’s national team, with expectations of a major move in the 2025/2026 season.
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Ademola Lookman (Nigeria)
Atalanta’s Nigerian attacker has developed as a prominent player in Serie A, as seen by his hat-trick in the 2023/2024 Europa League final against Bayer Leverkusen.
Nominated for the 2024 Ballon d’Or and winner of the 2024 African Footballer of the Year award, Lookman’s direct play, speed, and ingenuity make him a fearsome striker.
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Achraf Hakimi (Morocco)
Paris Saint-Germain’s right-back is a dynamic force in Ligue 1 and the UEFA Champions League, contributing eight goal involvements in 16 UCL appearances.
His attacking runs, defensive discipline, and pivotal role in Morocco’s 2022 World Cup semifinal run highlight his versatility.
Hakimi won the 2024/2025 Marc-Vivien Foe Award for the best African player in Ligue 1. He also won the UEFA Champions League last season with PSG.
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Omar Marmoush (Egypt)
Eintracht Frankfurt’s forward has been a revelation in the Bundesliga, scoring 15 goals last season.
His market value has soared to €75 million, reflecting his growing influence.
Marmoush’s pace, finishing, and ability to create chances have made him one of the top African performers in Europe.