Africa’s biggest football festival is on the horizon and while the tournament promises drama and intrigue, the spotlight is also on some of the continent’s brightest young talents.
This year’s edition of the Africa Cup of Nations could be the stage where a new generation announces itself and while Nigeria’s Ebenezer Akinsanmiro is one of the fastest rising stars of this new generation, he’s far from the only one to watch.
In this piece, Footynaija.com will be introducing you to some of the best young talents to keep an eye out for when the tournament kicks off proper in a few days.
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1. Ebenezer Akinsanmiro (Nigeria, 21) – Midfielder
Currently enjoying a breakout season with Pisa in Serie A (on loan from Inter Milan), Akinsanmiro has earned his maiden call-up to the Super Eagles.
An energetic, disciplined and strong ball-winner, the 21-year-old thrives in high-pressure situations and is perfect for protecting the backline while initiating attacks.
The Super Eagles can depend on him when they need to control the midfield and bring balance to games alongside his more experienced teammates.
2. Eliesse Ben Seghir (Morocco, 20) – Attacking Midfielder
The Atlas Lions’ hopes partly rest on this young creative dynamo. Recently transferred to Bayer Leverkusen for €30 million from Monaco, Ben Seghir has already racked up over 100 professional appearances for both club and country.
Comfortable on either wing or centrally, his dribbling, vision and link-up play with the likes of Bilal El Khannous and Ismael Saibari make him a constant threat behind Youssef En-Nesyri. Expect him to shine in front of the home fans.
3. Ibrahim Mbaye (Senegal, 17) – Winger
Despite his tender age, Mbaye is already making waves for reigning European and French champions Paris Saint-Germain. The Senegalese youngster is two-footed, lightning-quick and fearless on the ball.
He’s completed nine take-ons and created nine chances in just 450 Ligue 1 minutes this season. In the Senegal national team, he is widely regarded as the long-term heir to Sadio Mane, and he’ll be looking to impress out there in Morocco.
4. Ibrahim Maza (Algeria, 20) – Forward
The Bayer Leverkusen star has switched allegiances from Germany to Algeria and is now set to join the Algerian national team on the plane to Morocco for the 2025 AFCON.
While the 20-year-old is unlikely to be a guaranteed starter for Algeria, his goal-scoring and creative abilities could provide that X-factor off the bench that gives Vladimir Petkovic’s side a cutting edge.
