African Ballon d’Or: the 10 nominees, with Maza and Diomandé left out and three names sparking debate

The CAF has announced ten nominees for the 2026 African Player of the Year award: Achraf Hakimi, Brahim Diaz, Ismaël Saibari, Sadio Mané, Ismaïla Sarr, Pape Gueye, Amad Diallo, Yoane Wissa, Antoine Semenyo and Teboho Mokoena. Hakimi, the 2025 winner, is considered a leading contender after his performances for Paris Saint-Germain and Morocco’s World Cup campaign. The three Moroccan and three Senegalese nominees could split votes, while the omission of Ibrahim Maza and Yan Diomandé has raised questions despite their strong seasons. Maza and Diomandé are both nominated for African Young Player of the Year.