African football has produced some extraordinary talents over the years, players who have left an indelible mark on the beautiful game. From their mesmerizing skills to their unmatched passion, these legends have captivated fans worldwide and brought pride to their nations.
In this article, we celebrate the top 10 greatest African footballers of all time, showcasing their remarkable achievements, impact, and contributions to the sport.
Nowadays, when we look at the European Leagues, we will notice many Africans that are among the best players in their positions. Players like Mohamed Salah, Riyad Mahrez, Aubameyang, Sadio Mane and many others are among the best in Europe because of their world class performances.
Table of Contents
Ranking of the Best African footballers of All time
The players listed above are surely quality players but when it comes to the Best African footballers of all time, you will barely see them feature on that list.
So lets get down to our ranking and know the best African footballers of all time
Nowadays due to the facilities and mode of communication available around the World it is quite easy for an African player to reach Europe but it was not that easy in the past decades.
1. Samuel Eto'o (Cameroon)
Surely there is no other playing as deserving to be on this list like the Cameroonian player Samuel Eto'o who have achieved a lot in his career both for his club and his country.
The greater part of his glory came in the years of his career in Europe especially in Barcelona and Inter Milan and during his career, he won 3 Champions League and many League other League titles such as La Liga. Samuel Eto'o is a prolific goal scorer and will always remain in the minds of football fans especially Africans.
When we talk about the richest African footballers, Samuel Eto'o can not be left out of the list.
2. George Weah (Liberia)
George Weah is widely regarded as one of Africa's greatest footballers and the only African player to win the FIFA World Player of the Year award. Known for his explosive pace, technical abilities, and remarkable goal-scoring prowess, Weah dominated both at club level with AC Milan and Paris Saint-Germain, as well as on the international stage with Liberia.
3. Didier Drogba (Ivory-Coast)
Didier Drogba was a member of the elite Chelsea team that also featured Frank Lampard, John Terry, and Petr Cech. Chelsea supporters will always remember the Munich 2012 Champions League final. Against all odds, Drogba's late header tied the score, and his crucial penalty gave them their first Champions League championship.
With the London club, he also captured four Premier League championships. The striker led the Premier League in goals scored in both the 2006–07 and 2009–10 campaigns. Despite not having any international championships with the Ivory Coast, he twice received the African Footballer of the Year award. As a result, he continues to be one of all-time's most decorated African players.
4. Jay-Jay Okocha (Nigeria):
Augustine Okocha, fondly known as Jay-Jay Okocha, mesmerized fans with his unparalleled dribbling skills and creativity. Representing Nigeria, he showcased his artistry in midfield, leaving defenders in awe. Okocha played for several top clubs, including Paris Saint-Germain and Bolton Wanderers, where he became a fan favorite.
5. Roger Milla
Roger Milla, a Cameroonian striker, made history by becoming the oldest goal scorer in the FIFA World Cup at the age of 42. Known for his agility, intelligent movement, and clinical finishing, Milla inspired a generation of African footballers. His performances in the 1990 World Cup brought global recognition to African football.
6. Yaya Touré (Ivory Coast):
Yaya Touré, an Ivorian midfielder, was a dominant force on the pitch. With his physical presence, technical abilities, and powerful shots, he played a pivotal role in Manchester City's success, winning multiple Premier League titles. Touré's performances earned him several individual accolades, including multiple African Footballer of the Year awards.
Yaya Toure, often known as "The Tall Introvert," achieved success both at the club and international levels. At the 2015 AFCON, he guided the Ivory Coast to victory. Toure has also won league championships while playing for prestigious teams like FC Barcelona and Manchester City. With the Spanish powerhouses, he won the Champions League. He is unquestionably among the best African football players of all time.
The midfielder additionally took home four African Footballer of the Year awards. Toure was renowned for his power, vision, and scoring propensity. He really scored 20 league goals for Manchester City in the 2013–14 season, which is a remarkable feat for a defensive midfielder.
7. Abedi Pele (Ghana):
Abedi Pele, a Ghanaian attacking midfielder, was a true maestro on the field. Known for his exceptional dribbling skills, vision, and playmaking abilities, he played a vital role in Marseille's success in the 1990s. Pele's impact extended beyond club football, as he led the Ghana national team to its first-ever FIFA World Cup appearance.
8. Sadio Mane (Senegal)
Few people from the isolated town of Bambali can accomplish what Sadio Mane accomplished in his professional life. The winger first gained attention when playing for FC Metz at RB Salzburg. His accomplishments drew Southampton, which paid him £10 million. He was lured to Anfield by Jugen Klopp in 2016, and the rest is history.
He won the Champions League in 2019 while playing for the Merseyside club. He and Mohamed Salah and Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang shared the Premier League Golden Boot that year. The Senegalese played a key role in eliminating Liverpool's 30-year Premier League title drought as well. The Senegal side that won the AFCON in 2022 included Mane as a player. Thus, he is one of the most celebrated African players in history.
9. Nwankwo Kanu (Nigeria)
The Nigerian represented his nation at three World Cups. Kanu has an Olympic gold medal to his name but unfortunately, he could never win the African Cup of Nations. He won the Eredivisie title thrice and Champions League once with Ajax. The striker was also a part of the 2003-04 Arsenal squad managed by Arsene Wenger, which is popularly known as ‘The Invincibles.’
Despite all this success, he had to experience relegation with Portsmouth in the latter stages of his career. He also won the African Footballer of the Year award twice.
10. Hossam Hassan (Egypt):
Hossam Hassan, an Egyptian striker, is one of Africa's most prolific goal scorers. With an incredible goal-scoring record both domestically and internationally, he became a legend in Egyptian football. Hassan's leadership and goal-scoring prowess led Egypt to four African Cup of Nations titles.
Final Thoughts On Top 10 Greatest African Footballers of All Time
These ten best African footballers have left an indelible legacy, inspiring future generations and showcasing the immense talent that Africa has to offer. Their achievements on the pitch, both individually and collectively, have made them true icons of the game. As we celebrate their greatness, we acknowledge their contributions to African football and their enduring impact on the global stage.
The ranking of players is based on their overall impact, achievements, and influence on African football. The list is subjective and open to interpretation.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is the best African player in football history?
The best African player in Football history is Samuel Eto'o but there are still several other players such as Drogba, Okocha and Roger Milla who showed great performances in their years.
Who is the first African goalkeeper to win UEFA Champions League?
The first African to win the Champions League was Bruce Grobbelaar. The Zimbabwean goalkeeper won the competition with Liverpool in May 1984 in Rome, Italy.
Who is the king of football in Africa?
George Weah stands as the only African player to have won the prestigious Ballon d'Or in 1995.