Egyptian superstar Mohamed Salah has solidified his position as Africa’s best footballer for the 2023/2024 season, according to a report by Spanish sports outlet Marca. The Liverpool forward topped the rankings among African players, leaving notable competitors like Ademola Lookman, Victor Boniface, and Serhou Guirassy in his wake. This recognition adds yet another feather to Salah’s illustrious cap and reaffirms his dominance on the global football stage.
But what makes Salah deserving of this accolade? And why are some of Africa’s finest players missing from the list? Let’s delve into the details, rankings, and controversies surrounding this announcement.
Lookman, Salah and Boniface
Salah’s Stellar Season: Why He Deserves the Crown
Mohamed Salah’s consistency and extraordinary performances have set him apart. In the 2023/2024 season, Salah played a pivotal role for Liverpool, delivering crucial goals and assists in both domestic and international competitions. His ability to remain a consistent performer, even when Liverpool faced tough times, demonstrates his value not just as a player but as a leader on the pitch.
Global Ranking and Points
Salah secured the 31st spot in Marca‘s global rankings, accumulating an impressive 1,211 points. This ranking was determined by votes from over 100 football experts, including journalists, former players, and analysts. Salah’s inclusion in the global top 50 highlights his influence not just in Africa but across the footballing world.
The Contenders: How African Stars Fared
While Salah claimed the top spot among Africans, other players also had exceptional seasons. Here’s how they stacked up:
1. Victor Boniface
The Bayer Leverkusen sensation ranked as the second-best African player. His explosive performances in the Bundesliga and UEFA competitions earned him widespread recognition. Despite falling short of Salah in points, Boniface’s rise has been meteoric.
2. Serhou Guirassy
Stuttgart’s forward secured the third position among African players. Known for his sharp finishing and tactical awareness, Guirassy has been a standout player in the Bundesliga.
3. Ademola Lookman
Despite being a favorite for the 2024 CAF Player of the Year award, Atalanta’s Lookman was ranked fourth among Africans and 65th globally. This placement has sparked debates, as many fans and analysts believe Lookman’s contributions to Atalanta warranted a higher spot.
Controversies and Exclusions: Missing African Stars
While the rankings honored several African players, some glaring omissions raised eyebrows:
- Achraf Hakimi: The PSG defender and one of Africa’s most consistent performers was excluded from the list.
- Simon Adingra: Despite his impressive form for Brighton, Adingra didn’t make the cut.
- Ronwen Williams: The South African goalkeeper, known for his exploits in international tournaments, was another surprising omission.
These exclusions have reignited conversations about the criteria used for such rankings and whether they truly reflect players’ performances.
Analyzing the Top 100: Other African Players in the Spotlight
Marca’s list featured a handful of other African players who made it to the global top 100. Among them were:
- Ayoub El Kaabi (76th): A key player for Morocco, El Kaabi’s inclusion highlights his consistent performances on the international stage.
- Odilon Kossounou (78th): The Ivorian defender has been a rock at the back for Bayer Leverkusen.
- Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang (94th): Despite being in the twilight of his career, Aubameyang continues to make an impact at club level.
Comparing Rankings: Marca vs. CAF Awards
While Marca crowned Salah as Africa’s best, the CAF Awards have yet to announce their winner for 2024. Fans are keen to see how the CAF rankings will compare to Marca’s. Ademola Lookman, Victor Boniface, and Simon Adingra remain strong contenders for the CAF accolade, but Salah’s Marca triumph might influence perceptions.
What’s Next for Salah and African Football?
Salah’s recognition by Marca underscores the growing global influence of African footballers. From the English Premier League to the Bundesliga and beyond, African stars are shaping the future of the sport.
As we await the CAF Awards and other major accolades, one thing is clear: African players are no longer just participants in global football; they are trailblazers, rewriting the narrative of what it means to excel on the world stage.
Mohamed Salah’s victory as Africa’s best player for the 2023/2024 season, according to Marca, is a testament to his exceptional talent and work ethic. While debates around rankings and omissions will continue, this recognition cements Salah’s legacy as one of Africa’s greatest footballers.
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