African football has produced exceptional talent over the years, and the 21st century has been no different. This list of the Top 10 African Football Players of the 21st Century was created based on criteria such as global football impact, success in European and international competitions, trophies won, consistency over their careers, and worldwide recognition. While many names could have been included, we selected those who undoubtedly shaped the recent history of the sport.
10th Place: Michael Essien (Ghana)
Born in Ghana, Michael Essien was one of the most complete midfielders of the early 2000s. He had standout performances at clubs like Lyon and Chelsea, where he was known for his physical strength, ball-winning ability, and tactical versatility. He was a key player in Chelsea’s title wins, including the Premier League and the UEFA Champions League. His consistency and influence in midfield earn him a spot among the best.
9th Place: Riyad Mahrez (Algeria)
Riyad Mahrez, from Algeria, became one of the most skilful and creative players of his generation. He played a central role in Leicester City’s historic Premier League win in 2016, and later added more trophies with Manchester City, including the Champions League in 2023. He also led Algeria to victory in the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) in 2019. His dribbling, vision, and crucial goals are unforgettable.
8th Place: Kolo Touré (Ivory Coast)
Central defender Kolo Touré, from Ivory Coast, had a solid and successful career in the Premier League. He played for Arsenal, where he was part of the famous 2003-04 “Invincibles”, and later joined Manchester City and Liverpool. He was a leader on the pitch and a defensive rock both at club level and with the Ivorian national team, with whom he won AFCON in 2015.
7th Place: Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang (Gabon)
Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang, representing Gabon, is one of the most dangerous African forwards of this century. He made his mark at Borussia Dortmund, where he was top scorer in the Bundesliga, and also had great moments at Arsenal, winning the FA Cup. Known for his speed, finishing skills, and charisma, he is Gabon’s all-time top scorer.
6th Place: Kalidou Koulibaly (Senegal)
One of the best central defenders in the world over the past decade, Kalidou Koulibaly proudly represents Senegal. He became a fan favourite and defensive leader at Napoli before moving to Chelsea and Al Hilal. He played a vital role in helping Senegal win their first-ever AFCON title in 2022. His reading of the game, physical power, and leadership place him among Africa’s modern football elites.
5th Place: Emmanuel Adebayor (Togo)
Emmanuel Adebayor, born in Togo, had an impressive career with clubs such as Arsenal, Manchester City, Real Madrid, and Tottenham. Even though his national team didn’t achieve great collective success, Adebayor was one of the biggest ambassadors for African football in the 21st century. His goal-scoring ability and physical presence left a lasting impact.
4th Place: Yaya Touré (Ivory Coast)
Midfielder Yaya Touré, from Ivory Coast, was one of the most complete players in modern football. He shone at Barcelona, winning the Champions League, and later became the engine of Manchester City’s midfield, where he won multiple English titles. With his national team, he won AFCON in 2015. His technique, vision, and strength made him a global reference in the game.
3rd Place: Mohamed Salah (Egypt)
Mohamed Salah has become one of the best players in the world in the last decade. Born in Egypt, he stood out at Roma before reaching new heights at Liverpool, where he won the Premier League and the Champions League. Known for his speed, goal-scoring ability, and consistency, he is a symbol of modern African football and a hero in his home country and beyond.
2nd Place: Didier Drogba (Ivory Coast)
Didier Drogba, from Ivory Coast, was one of the most decisive strikers of his generation. He became a legend at Chelsea, winning the Premier League and playing a key role in their 2012 Champions League victory. He was also a leader both on and off the pitch, celebrated for his football achievements and his social contributions. For many, he is the face of African football in the early 21st century.
1st Place: Sadio Mané (Senegal)
At the top of the list is Sadio Mané, a Senegalese international who conquered the world with his humility, talent, and hard work. He shone at Southampton, became a star at Liverpool alongside Salah, and was essential in their Champions League win in 2019 and Premier League title in 2020. In 2022, he led Senegal to a historic AFCON victory. With his skill, dedication, and social impact, Mané is without a doubt the greatest African footballer of the 21st century.
African football continues to amaze the world with extraordinary talent. Many great names were left out of this list, such as Jay-Jay Okocha, Asamoah Gyan, André Ayew, and others—not due to lack of merit, but because of the incredible depth and diversity of talent on the continent. This list celebrates just a part of the priceless contribution African football has made to the beautiful game.
Some of the players mentioned are still active, performing on the pitch week after week. If you’re a football fan and enjoy following matches, you can always bet on the teams they play for, enjoying African talent in action on the world’s biggest stages.
Don’t forget that sports betting is for your enjoyment, so bet responsibly, because that’s how entertainment should be for everyone!
Thank you for reading and see you next time!
Proudly African. Bet with the best. Premier Bet.