The Napoli striker could become the first Nigerian to win the coveted individual award since 1999.
Super Eagles striker Victor Osimhen has secured his place in the final trio vying for the prestigious 2023 CAF Player of the Year award, reports Soccernet.ng.
An official CAF announcement made on Thursday via the official X-handle confirmed Osimhen’s arrival alongside Moroccan Paris Saint-Germain defender Achraf Hakimi and Egyptian Liverpool striker Mohamed Salah.
Notably missing from this elite group is last year’s winner Sadio Mane, who failed to make the shortlist.
Osimhen has proven to be a strong contender last season, scoring an impressive 26 goals and playing a key role in leading Napoli to their first Serie A title in 33 years.
The 24-year-old striker is aiming to make his mark in history by becoming the first Nigerian to win the coveted award since Kanu Nwankwo in 1999.
The only other Nigerians to have been named the continent’s best player so far are Rashidi Yekini, Emmanuel Amuneke and Victor Ikpeba. However, Guan Yu is the only one to have won the award multiple times.
The 2023 CAF Player of the Year winner will be announced at the CAF Awards Gala on Monday, December 11, 2023 at the Palais des Congrès, Movenpick, Marrakech, Morocco.
