Nine African players have been named among the world's finest in ESPN's FC 100 for 2025-26.
What does the season ahead hold for them, and what do they need to do to find themselves back on ESPN's list in 12 months' time?
Achraf Hakimi - PSG/Morocco
What does this season hold? - Expect another season of Hakimi again being expected to operate as one of PSG's genuine difference-makers - rather than merely a rightback - at the business end of European competition.
At 27, he's firmly in his prime, central to both club and country, and is the outstanding candidate to retain his African Footballer of the Year award.
Busy offseason? - Very. Was an influential component of a Morocco side that reached the World Cup quarterfinals -- Africa's best performers -- which means that Hakimi has taken part in three international tournaments in the last two years.
One big challenge - Staying fit. Given the player's relentless schedule, and an ever increasing workload, as well as his specifically demanding role for PSG, fitness concerns remain a genuine worry for Hakimi.
He sustained injury ahead of the Africa Cup of Nations in late 2025 - and was rushed back to action - before picking up a hamstring problem in the Champions League semifinal first leg against Bayern Munich.
Best-case scenario - Another trophy-laded season with PSG, individual recognition among the world's finest players, finally inspiring Morocco to the Africa Cup of Nations title next year.
Busy offseason? - Transformative summer for Bouaddi; he switched from France to Morocco ahead of the World Cup, immediately established himself as a starter, received global recognition for his performance against Brazil, and now stands on the brink of a massive transfer.
One big challenge - There are likely to be several. Adaptation to a new league, a new country, a club in transition after the departure of Pep Guardiola, and - of course - the need to replace Rodri in City's midfield.
Best-case scenario - He adapts seamlessly to the Premier League, quickly becomes City's reference point in the midfield, and goes from being considered one of Europe's best young midfielders to one of the world's finest in his position.
READ: ESPN's top 100 men's football players for 2026
Antoine Semenyo - Manchester City/Ghana
What does this season hold? - Semenyo has already demonstrated how is pace, power, directness and finishing can translate from Bournemouth to City. Now he must improve his consistency, become an indispensable element of the forward line, and consolidate himself as a truly elite forward.