From Cairo to Cape Town, Africa continues to shape the story of the Premier League. As the 2025–26 season kicks off, a new generation of African stars are stepping into the spotlight, while legendary figures are gearing up for yet another season at the top of English football. Whether you’re a die-hard fan, a Fantasy Premier League manager, or simply love great football, these are the African players set to light up the Premier League this season.
1. Mohamed Salah (Egypt) – Liverpool
Even at 33, Salah remains a phenomenon. With over 150 Premier League goals to his name, the Egyptian King shows no signs of slowing down. He’s Liverpool’s creative heartbeat and goalscoring machine rolled into one.
But this season, the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON 2025) looms large—potentially pulling Salah away mid-season. How Liverpool navigates this period could define their title ambitions.
Key Stat: Salah has hit double-digit goals in every Premier League season since arriving in 2017.
2. Mohammed Kudus (Ghana) – Tottenham Hotspur
After a breakout campaign at West Ham, Tottenham splashed €55 million to secure Kudus—one of Ghana’s brightest ever talents. Versatile, explosive, and technically gifted, Kudus can play anywhere across the front line or midfield.
He’s already drawing comparisons to Son Heung-min for his two-footed finishing and intelligent movement. Expect Kudus to be the jewel in Spurs’ attack.
Fantasy Tip: Kudus could be one of the most valuable attacking picks this season.
3. Simon Adingra (Ivory Coast) – Brighton
Brighton’s attacking play is a joy to watch—and Adingra is central to that creativity. With electric pace, fearless dribbling, and sharp decision-making, the Ivorian winger is starting to look like one of the best young attackers in the league.
He was also instrumental in Ivory Coast’s AFCON 2025 qualification and could become one of the tournament’s breakout stars in January.
4. Iliman Ndiaye (Senegal) – Everton
Under Sean Dyche, Ndiaye has flourished. His energy, pressing, and eye for goal were crucial to Everton’s survival last season. With more creative support now around him, expect a big jump in output in 2025–26.
Whether playing as a forward or deeper in midfield, the Senegalese international is becoming one of the most well-rounded African players in England.
Fantasy Bargain: Priced at £6.5m and expected to start every week.
5. Nicolas Jackson (Senegal) – Chelsea
Last season was up and down for Jackson, but Chelsea’s new-look side under fresh management is expected to play more to his strengths—fast transitions, direct runs, and space behind.
Still just 24, Jackson has all the tools to become a 20-goal-a-season striker, and with competition fierce up front, this could be his breakout year.
6. Franck Kessié (Ivory Coast) – Arsenal (Rumored)
While not confirmed, rumors of a Premier League move for Franck Kessié are heating up. If he lands at Arsenal or another top club, the Premier League could see one of Africa’s most physical and intelligent midfielders grace the pitch once again.
Keep an eye on this one—it could be one of the most exciting African transfers of the summer window.
7. Carlos Baleba (Cameroon) – Brighton
The midfield general at just 21, Baleba is commanding attention. Often compared to a young Paul Pogba, his ability to win duels, break lines, and dictate tempo is rare.
Brighton fans see him as their next big-money sale—this season will be his audition.
Prediction: Potential breakout midfielder of the 2025–26 season.
8. Bryan Mbeumo (Cameroon) – Manchester United (Linked)
After a sensational season at Brentford, Mbeumo has attracted serious interest from top clubs—most notably Manchester United. If the move goes through, his pace and precision crossing could revive United’s struggling attack.
Even if he stays, Mbeumo remains a top-tier talent with the ability to change games on his own.
Honorable Mentions
- Alex Iwobi (Nigeria, Fulham): Ever-reliable, now holds the record for most Premier League minutes by a Nigerian player.
- Ismaïla Sarr (Senegal, Crystal Palace): Back to full fitness and once again showing why he was once a £30m target for top clubs.
- Yoane Wissa (DR Congo, Brentford): Flying under the radar, but key to Brentford’s counter-attacking style.
The AFCON Effect
With the Africa Cup of Nations taking place mid-season, expect major shifts in team dynamics during January and February. Clubs like Liverpool, Chelsea, and Brighton will lose key African stars. How they cope without them may decide their top-four or relegation battles.
Final Thoughts
Africa’s impact on the Premier League is growing every season—and 2025–26 is shaping up to be the most exciting yet. From Salah’s leadership, to Kudus’s emergence, to the next wave of raw talent, the continent’s influence is everywhere.
If you’re tuning in this season, don’t just watch the big clubs—watch the African players. They’re writing a new chapter in Premier League history.
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