As the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations gets underway in Morocco this Sunday, with hosts Morocco opening the tournament against Comoros in Rabat, attention is turning to the players who could define the competition.
Rather than focusing only on established stars, this list highlights 11 emerging talents, young exciting footballers who may not yet be household names, but who have the tools to leave a serious impression on the continentโs biggest stage.
Rafik Belghali
Right Back | 23 | Algeria
Rafik Belghali arrives at AFCON 2025 on the back of a standout start to life in Serie A. Since joining Hellas Verona from Mechelen in the summer, the Algerian full back has quickly established himself as one of the leagueโs most attack minded defenders.
Comfortable pushing high up the pitch, Belghali combines energy with technical quality, regularly beating opponents and creating chances from open play. His performances have already earned him links with Italian heavyweights such as Inter and Roma.
After making his senior Algeria debut in October, he has started three of the last four internationals and even opened his international goal account in a recent friendly win over Saudi Arabia. A strong AFCON could accelerate his rise.
Enzo Boyomo
Centre Back | 24 | Cameroon
Once released by Blackburn Rovers, Enzo Boyomo has rebuilt his career impressively in Spain. Now a key figure for Osasuna, the Cameroonian defender has racked up over 50 La Liga starts across the last two seasons.
Boyomo is not the tallest centre back, but his intelligence, anticipation and strength in one on one situations make him a reliable presence, particularly in a back three. Statistically, he ranks among the most efficient tacklers in Spainโs top flight.
With Cameroonโs defensive unit relatively inexperienced, Boyomo could play a bigger role as the tournament progresses.
Arsรจne Kouassi
Left Back | 21 | Burkina Faso
Few young defenders in France have caught the eye this season like Arsรจne Kouassi. After impressing in Ligue 2, he followed Lorient into Ligue 1 and has looked right at home.
Quick, fearless and constantly pushing forward, Kouassi has become one of the most productive full backs in the division, contributing heavily in dribbles, progressive carries and chance creation, remarkable output for a promoted side.
Despite limited international experience, he has the profile of a breakout AFCON performer.
Jaouen Hadjam
Left Back | 22 | Algeria
Jaouen Hadjam offers Algeria a different kind of threat down the left. Currently playing for Young Boys in Switzerland, the Paris born defender is one of the most aggressive dribblers in Europe from a defensive position.
Whether used as a full back or pushed higher up the pitch, Hadjam thrives in carrying the ball forward and taking on opponents. His solo goals and creative numbers underline his ability to change games in an instant.
Even if he does not start every match, his impact potential is obvious.
Mamadou Sangarรฉ
Central Midfielder | 23 | Mali
Lensโ unexpected rise to the top of Ligue 1 has owed a lot to Mamadou Sangarรฉ. Signed from Rapid Wien, the Malian midfielder has adapted seamlessly to French football.
Technically sound and physically strong, Sangarรฉ combines tidy ball use with relentless defensive work. He leads Ligue 1 for tackle attempts and possession recoveries, highlighting his importance off the ball.
Already attracting Premier League interest, AFCON 2025 could be his global shop window.
Arthur Avom
Central Midfielder | 21 | Cameroon
Arthur Avom continues to grow in influence for Lorient following their promotion. A powerful runner from midfield, Avom excels at driving his team forward with purposeful carries and direct play.
Despite playing in a side that sees less of the ball, he ranks highly for progressive runs and defensive contributions, showing both discipline and attacking intent.
With Cameroonโs midfield lacking experience, Avomโs energy could prove vital in tight matches.
Noah Sadiki
Central Midfielder | 21 | DR Congo
Premier League fans will already be familiar with Noah Sadiki after his impressive spell with Sunderland. The box to box midfielder has been one of the leagueโs most industrious performers this season.
Sadiki covers ground relentlessly, presses aggressively and reads danger well. Few midfielders match his intensity, both in and out of possession.
Now representing DR Congo, he will be keen to help them build on their strong showing at the last AFCON.
Kamory Doumbia
Attacking Midfielder | 22 | Mali
Kamory Doumbia blends creativity with tireless work rate at Brest. Operating high in midfield, he plays a key role in both attacking build up and defensive pressing.
Doumbia is efficient in front of goal and unusually productive for a player with his slight frame. His scoring record at international level already places him among Maliโs most reliable contributors.
He could be one of the tournamentโs most decisive midfielders.
Yan Diomandรฉ
Winger | 19 | Cรดte dโIvoire
Yan Diomandรฉโs rise has been nothing short of remarkable. From high school football in the United States to starring for RB Leipzig in the Bundesliga, his journey has been rapid and eye catching.
Blessed with pace and fearless dribbling, Diomandรฉ leads the Bundesliga for take ons and progressive carries. While his end product is still developing, his ability to unsettle defences is already elite.
At just 19, he may become one of AFCON 2025โs biggest talking points.
Ibrahim Mbaye
Winger | 17 | Senegal
Paris Saint Germainโs Ibrahim Mbaye is one of the most exciting teenage attackers in Europe. Despite fierce competition for places, the 17 year old has forced his way into PSGโs senior setup.
Direct, confident and technically sharp, Mbaye loves taking on defenders and creating chances. His creative numbers are impressive for his age, and his movement without the ball adds another dimension to his game.
Having switched allegiance to Senegal, AFCON could mark his arrival on the global stage.
Christian Kofane
Forward | 19 | Cameroon
Christian Kofane represents Cameroonโs next generation of striking talent. After a prolific spell with Albacete in Spainโs second tier, he earned a move to Bayer Leverkusen and wasted no time making an impact.
Strong, clinical and composed, Kofane has already scored important goals at club level, including in the UEFA Champions League.
Still uncapped internationally, he could emerge as a surprise weapon if Cameroon need goals as the tournament unfolds.
AFCON 2025 promises drama, quality and discovery, and these 11 young players could be at the heart of it all.
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