AFCON 2023: Top Best Young Players to Watch, The 34th edition of the CAF TotalEnergies Africa Cup of Nations is about to start in the next few days in Ivory Coast.
In keeping with the tradition of previous editions, many teams have chosen to include young players in their squads, giving these budding talents the opportunity to showcase their skills on the world stage. This commitment to the inclusion of young players highlights the tournament’s role not only as a showcase of football prowess, but also as a platform to develop and showcase emerging talent to the global football community.
The inclusion of young energy and talent adds an exciting dimension to the tournament, as these promising players bring fresh perspective, agility and enthusiasm to their teams. Their inclusion not only improves the overall quality of the competition, but also contributes to the development and progress of football at the national and continental levels.
As fans eagerly await the match, all eyes will be on the young players, eager to see how they cope with the pace of international competition and make their mark at the 34th edition of the FIFA World Cup. Africa of Nations CAF TotalEnergies. The tournament not only serves as a battleground for established stars, but also a launching pad for the next generation of football talent, creating an environment for the game on the African continent.
AFCON 2023: Top Best Young Players to Watch
1. At just 20 years old, Senegalese Lamine Camara has played a key role for French side Metz this season, making 17 appearances, scoring one goal and providing two assists. He also scored for Senegal in the 2026 World Cup qualifying match against South Sudan on November 18, 2023, making coach Aliou Cissé believe in him.
2. Cameroonian Wilfried Nathan Douala, born on May 15, 2006 in Douala, is a surprising addition to Rigobert Song’s roster for the TotalEnergies CAF Africa Cup of Nations 2023. A midfielder for Victoria United in the Cameroonian first division, the 17-year-old player impressed coaches with his unique technical ability and good performances in the league.
3. Karim Konaté from Ivory Coast hit the headlines a year and a half ago (June 2022) with his transfer from ASEC Mimosas to RB Salzburg. After a successful season with the Ivorian club, the 19-year-old striker has attracted the attention of big clubs around the world. Born on March 21, 2004, Konaté continues to impress and should be one of the attractions for Ivorian supporters during the CAN organized at home.
4. Ghanaian Ernest Nuamah has played a key role in Ligue 1 with Olympique Lyonnais this season making 14 appearances. The 20-year-old winger, bought for €25m from Nordsjaelland and Molenbeek before being sent to Lyon, made an immediate impact. , scoring a goal and providing an assist in the league. He made his debut for the Black Stars in June 2023, and his powerful performances should add even more style to an already formidable attack.
5. Moroccan Michael Amir Richardson Junior, 21, joined Stade de Reims this season from Le Havre and is off to an impressive start to his career. The dynamic 6’5” midfielder distinguished himself in Reims with three goals in 14 matches. This performance earned him a place in Walid Regragui’s 27, making him one of the surprises of the group.
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