As the kickoff for the African Cup of Nations starts, we explore five players you should keep on your radar. The continent is renowned for producing some of the greatest talents in the history of the game. While many African players have represented countries like France, England, Belgium, and other European nations due to dual-nationalities and birthplaces, there has been a recent shift where younger emerging talents choose to represent their African roots. This adds more excitement to the upcoming tournament in Cote D’Ivoire, and here are the players you should watch out for!
1) Ousmane Diomande (20 YO) – Cote D’Ivoire & Sporting Lisbon
Ousmane Diomande, a 20-year-old centre-back playing for Sporting Lisbon in Portugal, has already made a mark with 21 appearances for the Portuguese giants this season. Diomande, standing at 6’4, dominates aerial battles with his large frame, displaying the modern-day center-back characteristics. His ball-playing ability, composure, and capacity to break lines from defense have attracted interest from Premier League clubs like Chelsea, Newcastle, and Liverpool. With established center back Eric Bailly absent for Cote D’Ivoire in this AFCON, the pressure is on Diomande to command the backline for the hosts.
2) Mohamed Amoura (23 YO) – Algeria & Union SG
Mohamed Amoura, a 23-year-old forward playing for Union SG in Belgium, has made a significant impact in the Jupiler Pro League. With 17 goals at the halfway stage of the season, he replaced Nigerian striker Victor Boniface and notably contributed against Liverpool in the Europa League. His performances have attracted interest from AC Milan, Borussia Dortmund, and Wolves. Amoura’s quick top speed, acceleration, ball-carrying ability, passing vision, and goal-scoring instinct make him one of the most exciting talents at this year’s AFCON.
3) Amir Richardson (21 YO) – Morocco & Stade Reims
Amir Richardson, a 21-year-old box-to-box midfielder at Stade Reims in Ligue 1, stands out with his 6’6 frame and agility. Excelling in the French league with 3 goals and an assist, Richardson's well-rounded midfield skills, including an eye for a pass and defensive intelligence, have linked him to clubs like Stade Rennais. A good tournament could further elevate his status as a sought-after midfielder, especially in the Premier League.
4) Fares Chaibi (21 YO) – Algeria & Eintracht Frankfurt
After an impressive season at Toulouse in Ligue 1, Fares Chaibi secured a £15 million move to Eintracht Frankfurt. The 21-year-old Algerian attacking midfielder, with 2 goals and 9 assists in all competitions, possesses silky footwork, passing ability, and a knack for shooting from distance. Chaibi has become a key player for Djamel Belmadi’s Algeria team, catching the eye of bigger European clubs. A strong showing in AFCON will likely attract more interest in his services.
5) Wilfred Nathan Douala (17 YO) – Cameroon & Victoria United
The inclusion of 17-year-old central midfielder Nathan Douala in Cameroon's squad surprised many. Playing for Victoria United in the Cameroonian league, Douala is recognized for his technical ability and eye for a pass. While not expected to get a majority of minutes, his presence as the youngest player in the tournament presents an opportunity to make a mark and potentially secure a move to European football, advancing his football career.
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