In anticipation of the upcoming 34th edition of the AFCON set to unfold in Côte d'Ivoire, the spotlight turns to young talents who are poised to make a mark on the world stage.
See also:
- Meet all 24 AFCON 2023 Coaches
- Complete AFCON 2023 Squad lists – All teams
- AFCON 2023 Table – Groups & Knockout Stages
- Top 10 Players to Watch in AFCON Côte d'Ivoire 2023
This list, courtesy CAF Online, presents a Top 5 list of promising young players to keep an eye on during this prestigious competition:
Lamine Camara (Senegal)
At just 20 years old, Lamine Camara, a key player for French side Metz, has secured his spot in Senegal's lineup.
With 17 appearances, one goal, and two assists this season, Camara's notable performance, including scoring against South Sudan in the World Cup 2026 qualifiers, has earned him the trust of coach Aliou Cisse.
Wilfried Nathan Douala (Cameroon)
Born on May 15, 2006, in Douala, Wilfried Nathan Douala, a midfielder for Victoria United in Cameroon's top division, emerges as a surprise inclusion in Rigobert Song's squad.
The 17-year-old's technical prowess and commendable league performances impressed the coaching staff, leading to his inclusion in the CAF TotalEnergies Africa Cup of Nations 2023.
Karim Konaté (Côte d'Ivoire)
Transferring from ASEC Mimosas to RB Salzburg in June 2022, 19-year-old forward Karim Konaté continues to captivate football enthusiasts.
Born on March 21, 2004, Konaté's remarkable journey and global recognition make him a key attraction for Ivorian fans as the nation hosts CAN on home soil.
Ernest Nuamah (Ghana)
A pivotal figure for Olympique Lyonnais in Ligue 1, 20-year-old Ernest Nuamah's dynamic play and impact on the team are evident through his 14 appearances this season.
Acquired for €25 million, Nuamah's immediate contributions, including a goal and an assist, reflect his growing influence.
Having earned his first cap for the Black Stars in June 2023, Nuamah adds flair to Ghana's formidable attacking lineup.
Michael Amir Richardson Junior (Morocco – 21 years)
Standing at an impressive 6'5″, 21-year-old midfielder Michael Amir Richardson Junior has made a significant impact at Stade de Reims, contributing three goals in 14 matches.
This stellar performance secured his spot in Walid Regragui's 27-man squad, marking him as one of the squad's surprises as Morocco aims for success in the upcoming tournament.
As the CAF TotalEnergies Africa Cup of Nations kicks off, football enthusiasts eagerly anticipate the performances of these rising stars on the African football stage.
