Mohamed Salah could win another major award after record-breaking Liverpool season | OneFootball

Salah’s Bid for African Football’s Top Honour Intensifies

Mohamed Salah has grown accustomed to elite recognition in England, but his latest pursuit comes on a stage shaped by continental pride. After another season of exceptional influence at Liverpool, the forward now stands among the final three contenders for one of football’s most prestigious individual honours: the African Player of the Year award.

With the ceremony set for Wednesday in Morocco, the spotlight falls once again on a player whose consistency has become almost customary. Yet this year’s shortlist brings a compelling contest, defined by form, silverware and the evolving hierarchy of African excellence.

Salah’s Dominant Year Positions Him Strongly

The Egyptian enjoyed a campaign that showcased both productivity and leadership. His return of goals, assists and decisive performances powered Liverpool through key phases of the season, earning him a sweep of major individual awards across English football. In doing so, he reaffirmed his position as one of the sport’s most influential forwards.

While global accolades have occasionally eluded him – including another near miss in the Ballon d’Or race – the continent’s premier award presents a clearer route to overdue celebration. Salah is already a two-time winner, having captured back-to-back titles in 2017 and 2018. A third triumph would elevate him further within African football’s historical landscape, placing his name alongside the most decorated figures the continent has produced.

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Rivals Osimhen and Hakimi Provide Serious Competition

The shortlist’s reduction from ten players to three has led to a tight contest involving Salah, Victor Osimhen and Achraf Hakimi. Both challengers arrive with formidable cases built on silverware and standout moments.

Osimhen’s scoring record remains exceptional. His 37 goals last season, combined with Galatasaray’s domestic double, underline his continuing rise. His physicality, intelligent movement and capacity for match-defining contributions made him a relentless force throughout the campaign.

Hakimi, meanwhile, delivered one of the most complete seasons of any full-back in world football. Central to Paris Saint-Germain’s treble, he combined defensive reliability with attacking potency, registering nine goals and twelve assists. His strike in the Champions League final only strengthened his standing as one of Africa’s most influential modern players.

Why Salah Enters as Award Favourite

Despite the remarkable years enjoyed by Osimhen and Hakimi, Salah’s level of influence remains unique. Season after season, his output shapes Liverpool’s trajectory, and his consistency—both in numbers and in decisive moments—continues to set standards across the Premier League.

Across 54 appearances in all competitions, he produced 34 goals and 23 assists, numbers unmatched by either of his rivals. Beyond raw statistics, his impact extended to leadership, resilience and an ability to perform when Liverpool most required clarity in difficult fixtures.

Players often speak of defining seasons. For Salah, this past campaign was one in which he looked not only dynamic but revitalised, carrying a presence that matched his earlier peak years under Jürgen Klopp. That broader influence may ultimately give him the edge when voters weigh individual brilliance against team achievements.

Award Decision Set for a Tight Finish

This year’s African Player of the Year decision feels closer than many in recent memory. All three nominees arrive with credible claims, striking form and significant honours. But when the final assessments are made, Salah’s consistency, productivity and importance to Liverpool could prove decisive.

The stage is set in Morocco. Three elite footballers, one prestigious award — and a chance for Salah to reclaim a crown many feel has long awaited his return.