Exciting Competition for the Best African Player Award
In a thrilling announcement from Belgium's Pro League, Moroccan star Zakaria Ouhadi and Algerian player Adam Zarqa are set to compete for the prestigious title of Best African Player in the Belgian League for the 2025-2026 season. This award, newly established, serves as a counterpart to the renowned 'Marc-Vivien Foé' award, which is given to the top African player in the French league.
Adam Zarqa, representing Union Saint-Gilloise, has emerged as one of the leading candidates for this accolade. Having made a significant transfer from Charleroi last summer, Zarqa quickly demonstrated his exceptional capabilities in his new club. The midfielder has been instrumental for his team, contributing seven assists and two goals across 43 matches in all competitions, showcasing his ability to influence the game's dynamics consistently.
Remarkable Performances from Both Players
Meanwhile, Zakaria Ouhadi, who plays for Genk, is also having an outstanding season and is a strong contender for the award. His impressive performance has earned him a call-up to the Moroccan national team, indicating his rising profile in international football. Ouhadi has scored 11 goals and provided three assists in all competitions, highlighting his rare attacking prowess for a player in a defensive position.
In addition to these two talented players, the competition includes Ivorian player Parfait Ghigayon from Sporting Charleroi, who has surprised many with his remarkable skills this season. Ghigayon has also netted 11 goals and assisted five times, positioning himself as a strong candidate for the award while aiming to secure a spot on the Ivorian national team ahead of the 2026 World Cup.
The final list of five candidates for the Best African Player award also features Nigerian Rafael Onyedika, a key player for Club Brugge, and David Promess, a Canadian international of Nigerian descent, who has scored nine goals this season. The winner of the 35th edition of the Ebony Shoe award will be announced on Monday, May 4, in Brussels, adding to the anticipation surrounding this prestigious event.
As reported by eremnews.com.
