In a surprising twist, Togolese football legend Emmanuel Adebayor has thrown his weight behind Guinean striker Serhou Guirassy for the coveted 2024 CAF Player of the Year Award. While many expected Nigerian talents Ademola Lookman and Victor Osimhen to dominate the conversation, Adebayor’s endorsement has shifted the spotlight.
Guirassy, the 26-year-old sensation, had an extraordinary season with VfB Stuttgart during the 2023/2024 campaign. His goal-scoring prowess was nothing short of spectacular, netting an impressive 30 goals in just 30 matches.
The Bundesliga witnessed Guirassy’s brilliance firsthand, with 28 of those goals coming in league fixtures. His consistency and hunger for goals set him apart, even as he narrowly trailed behind the prolific Harry Kane in the Bundesliga Golden Boot race.
Emmanuel Adebayor, a former Arsenal striker and a respected figure in African football, minced no words when he declared Guirassy as the deserving candidate for the prestigious accolade. Speaking to Afrik-Foot,
Adebayor emphasized Guirassy’s impact: “Of course, he deserves to win. He had an extraordinary season with Stuttgart, consistently finding the back of the net. With Salah not scoring as much and Osimhen having a quieter season, the race is wide open. If it’s Guirassy, it will be well deserved.”
Ademola Lookman, the star of the Europa League final, had a memorable year. His hat-trick for Atalanta against Bayer Leverkusen left fans in awe, and his contributions to Nigeria’s campaign at the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations were significant. However, Adebayor’s endorsement has shifted the narrative, leaving Lookman’s chances uncertain.
Victor Osimhen, the Napoli striker, also had a stellar 2022-23 season. His 26 goals in 32 appearances played a crucial role in Napoli clinching their first Serie A title in 33 years. Yet, Adebayor’s nod toward Guirassy has added intrigue to the award race.
As football enthusiasts eagerly await the 2024 CAF Award Ceremony, scheduled for October 10 in Kinshasa, DRC, the question remains: Who will claim the coveted title? Will it be the familiar names or the rising star from Guinea? Only time will reveal the answer.
In the meantime, Ademola Lookman’s recent recognition as the ‘Best African International Footballer’ at the Ghana Football Awards underscores his impact on the continent. But with Guirassy’s emergence, the plot thickens, and football fans brace themselves for an exciting showdown.
The 2024 CAF Player of the Year Award ceremony date remains undisclosed, but the anticipation grows as football enthusiasts speculate on the winner.
