AFCON 2025
The 2025 Africa Cup of Nations is right upon us as the top teams on the continent compete for the most coveted prize in African football.
While Superstars like Nigeria’s Victor Osimhen, Egypt’s Mohammed Salah, Senegal’s Sadio Mane, and Morocco’s Achraf Hakimi, among others, take all the attention, the tournament, just like in previous years, unveils new young and talented players for the future.
There are several young players to watch in the tournament, some of whom are already starters in their respective European clubs.
This post examines some of these young and talented footballers as football enthusiasts look forward to another fun-filled tournament just like the 2023 edition in Cote d’Ivoire.
1. Ibrahim Mbaye (Senegal, Age 17, Paris Saint-Germain)
The 17-year-old winger is going to the AFCON after an outstanding season with PSG last season. Mbaye is an explosive two-footed winger with exceptional pace and one-v-one ability. He is already starting games for PSG in Ligue 1 and the Champions League, and he is already being considered as a potential heir to Sadio Mané, given how talented and high-rated he is.
2. Eliesse Ben Seghir (Morocco, Age 20, Bayer Leverkusen)
Eliesse Ben Seghir is an attacking midfielder, but also has the skill set to play as a wide forward. The 20-year-old versatile forward played seven matches during the World Cup qualifiers and scored a goal and an assist.
3. Ebenezer Akinsanmiro
The Super Eagles of Nigeria are one of the most experienced sides in the tournament, with a good number of players playing in their fourth tournament. The team is a blend of experience of youth, and Akinsanmiro is one to look out for.
The Pisa midfielder on loan from Inter Milan offers options in midfield as he operates basically as a box-to-box workaholic but can also sit deep in a double pivot.
Ebenezer Akinsanmiro is full of energy, breaking the lines with his ball-playing carrying ability while also crashing into the box, registering shots on target.
4. Noah Sadiki (Age 20, DR Congo, Sunderland)
It remains to be seen how Sunderland will cope without the energetic and strong-tackling midfielder for the next couple of weeks.
The 20-year-old has been vital to the early successes of the Black Cats this season for his immense work in the middle of the park.
It is no surprise that Noah Sadiki is already forcing his way into the DR Congo lineup. His versatility across positions will add depth to the Leopards’ midfield.
5. Yan Diomande (Age 19, Ivory Coast, RB Leipzig)
Yan Diomande is arguably the best winger in the Bundesliga this season, with six goals and three assists this season in 14 matches.
This dynamic winger has impressed in the Bundesliga with goals, assists, and take-ons, scoring in his first two international caps.
As part of the reigning AFCON champions, his form could be crucial from wide positions as the Elephants look to retain their title.
