African Footballer of the Year Winners Since 2000 | Full List & Records

African Footballer of the Year Winners List Since 2000

The African Footballer of the Year winners list since 2000 is a reflection of the continent’s football greatness. Organized by CAF, this award honors the best African player annually, both on the global stage and at home. From Samuel Eto’o’s dominance in the 2000s to Mohamed Salah’s brilliance in the modern era, this list highlights Africa’s lasting impact on world football.

Full List of CAF Footballer of the Year Winners (2000–2024)

Legends Who Defined the African Footballer of the Year

Looking at the African Footballer of the Year winners list since 2000, some legendary names dominate the history books. Samuel Eto’o of Cameroon and Yaya Touré of Côte d’Ivoire both won four times each, cementing their place as African football royalty. Didier Drogba, another icon, added two trophies to Côte d’Ivoire’s tally, showcasing the nation’s golden generation.

A New Era of African Superstars

The 2010s ushered in a wave of new talent. Mohamed Salah, Sadio Mané, and Riyad Mahrez became global icons, leading their clubs to European glory. Their consistent presence on the African Footballer of the Year winners list highlights Africa’s growing influence in the Premier League, Bundesliga, Serie A, and beyond.

Records & Trends

• Most Wins (4 each): Samuel Eto’o & Yaya Touré
• Most Wins by Country: Côte d’Ivoire (6), Cameroon (5), Senegal (4)
• Recent Surge: Egypt, Algeria, and Nigeria have dominated in the last decade, showing Africa’s deep talent pool.

The African Footballer of the Year winners list since 2000 tells the story of legends past and present. From Eto’o and Touré’s dominance to Salah and Osimhen’s rise, this award is a testament to Africa’s continued impact on world football. With new stars emerging every year, African football’s influence shows no signs of slowing down.