Introduction
Football has always been more than just a game for many Africans and for these African-born stars—it’s a way to connect with their roots while leaving a mark on the global stage. Whether they’re dazzling fans in the Premier League or showcasing their talents in La Liga, these players carry the pride of their nations with them. In 2024, we’re seeing African footballers not only lighting up Europe’s biggest leagues but also staying true to the places they call home. From giving back to their communities to representing their heritage on and off the pitch, these stars are proving that the heart of football beats in Africa. Let’s take a closer look at their journeys, their triumphs, and how they balance being football icons and ambassadors of their cultures.
1. Mohamed Salah (Egypt) - Liverpool, Premier League
Mohamed Salah’s name has become synonymous with football excellence. Growing up in Nagrig, Egypt, Salah's dream was always to play in Europe. Today, he's one of the Premier League’s most iconic players, continuing to dazzle for Liverpool with his speed, skill, and incredible goal-scoring ability.
But even as his global fame rises, Salah remains rooted in his Egyptian heritage. His consistent charity work and commitment to helping the less fortunate in Egypt show that no matter how high he climbs, his feet remain firmly planted in his homeland.
2. Bukayo Saka (England/Nigeria) - Arsenal, Premier League
Bukayo Saka has become one of the Premier League's brightest young stars, showcasing his talent week in and week out for Arsenal. Born to Nigerian parents in London, Saka's African roots are an integral part of his identity, despite playing for England at the international level. His ability to play multiple attacking positions has made him a key player for both club and country.
Saka often speaks about his connection to Nigeria, and his humility and work ethic resonate with fans both in the UK and across Africa. He's a beacon for young footballers of African descent who look to make their mark in the global football scene.
3. Victor Osimhen (Nigeria) - Galatasaray, Süper Lig (On Loan from Napoli)
Victor Osimhen's rise from the streets of Lagos to becoming one of Europe’s top strikers has been nothing short of phenomenal. After an impressive spell at Napoli, where he led the team to success, Osimhen now plays on loan for Galatasaray in the Süper Lig. Known for his lethal finishing and powerful style of play, Osimhen’s journey exemplifies hard work and perseverance.
Despite playing in Europe, Osimhen continues to honour his Nigerian heritage. He frequently returns to Lagos, working with local football initiatives and serving as a role model for young Nigerians dreaming of following in his footsteps.
4. Wilfried Zaha (Ivory Coast) - Lyon, Ligue 1 (On Loan from Galatasaray)
After a long and successful career in the Premier League with Crystal Palace, Wilfried Zaha now finds himself on loan at Lyon from Galatasaray in the Süper Lig. Known for his flair and creativity on the wing, Zaha’s roots in Abidjan, Ivory Coast, have remained central to his career. He chose to represent Ivory Coast at the international level, embracing his African identity despite growing up in England.
Zaha continues to use his platform to raise awareness about causes close to his heart in Ivory Coast and remains deeply connected to his African roots, showing that football is about more than just what happens on the pitch.
5. Romelu Lukaku (Belgium/DR Congo) - AS Roma, Serie A
Romelu Lukaku's journey is one of resilience and determination. Born to Congolese parents in Belgium, Lukaku has played for some of Europe’s biggest clubs, including Chelsea, Inter Milan, and Manchester United. In 2024, he finds himself as a striker for Serie A club Napoli, where he continues to use his physical presence and sharp finishing to make an impact.
Lukaku is proud of his Congolese heritage and often speaks about the influence his roots have had on his career.
6. Paul Pogba (France/Guinea) - Juventus, Serie A
Paul Pogba, born in France to Guinean parents, has been one of the most recognisable figures in world football for over a decade. His flamboyant style on and off the pitch, coupled with his leadership at Juventus and the French national team, makes him a global icon. Yet, Pogba’s connection to Guinea is a core part of who he is. From supporting Guinean youth football projects to embracing his African heritage in his personal life, Pogba’s pride in his roots is ever-present.
His journey from the streets of Lagny-sur-Marne to becoming a World Cup winner is not just a story of individual success but also a reflection of the influence African players continue to have on global football.
7. Achraf Hakimi (Morocco) - Paris Saint-Germain, Ligue 1
Achraf Hakimi, a versatile right-back born in Spain to Moroccan parents, has become a key player for Paris Saint-Germain and the Moroccan national team. His decision to represent Morocco internationally was driven by a deep sense of pride in his heritage, and he played a pivotal role in Morocco’s historic World Cup run in 2022.
Hakimi continues to be a symbol of Moroccan excellence, frequently engaging with his roots through community outreach and football development initiatives in Morocco. His success at PSG and beyond is a testament to the growing influence of African players on the world stage.
8. Sadio Mané (Senegal) - Al-Nassr, Saudi Pro League
Although now plying his trade in the Saudi Pro League, Sadio Mané's influence remains global. After successful spells with Liverpool and Bayern Munich, the Senegalese forward continues to dazzle fans worldwide with his electrifying play. Mané's commitment to improving lives back in Senegal, where he’s built schools, and hospitals, and provided other resources, is a shining example of his deep connection to his homeland.
Mané's story, from a small village in Senegal to global football superstardom, is one that resonates across Africa, and he remains one of the continent’s proudest exports.
9. Franck Kessié (Ivory Coast) - Al-Ahli, Saudi Pro League
Franck Kessié’s powerful performances in midfield have made him a sought-after player across Europe and beyond. After stints with AC Milan and Barcelona, Kessié now finds himself in the Saudi Pro League with Al-Ahli. A proud Ivorian, Kessié has always embraced his African roots, making significant contributions to his community back home.
10. Samuel Chukwueze (Nigeria) - AC Milan, Serie A
Samuel Chukwueze’s journey from Nigeria to Europe has been filled with breathtaking moments. His time at Villarreal earned him a reputation as a fast and skillful winger, and his 2024 move to AC Milan has solidified his status as one of Africa’s most exciting talents. Chukwueze remains a proud representative of Nigeria, often dedicating his performances to his homeland.
Conclusion
The rise of African-born players in football’s top leagues isn’t just about talent; it’s about a deep connection to their roots, resilience, and a sense of responsibility to the next generation. As they inspire fans globally with their performances, they also inspire young Africans to dream big, proving that success on the world stage doesn’t mean leaving home behind. With every goal, assist, celebration or loss, the future of football is brighter because of these stars.
