AFCON 2025: Rising stars to watch in Morocco

The 2025 Africa Cup of Nations kicks off in Morocco on Sunday, and while much of the spotlight will naturally fall on established names, the tournament is also set to introduce a new wave of talent ready to leave its mark on the continental stage.

With hosts Morocco, record winners Egypt, reigning champions Cote d’Ivoire and Senegal among the leading contenders, AFCON 2025 offers the perfect platform for emerging players to shape the fortunes of their nations.

Beyond familiar stars such as Mohamed Salah, Achraf Hakimi and Sadio Mané, a number of younger talents arrive with strong club form and growing reputations, eager to announce themselves to a wider audience.

1. Ibrahim Adel (Egypt - Al-Jazira, UAE) A product of Egyptian football’s recent revival, Adel made his name at Pyramids FC before moving to Al-Jazira. The 24-year-old winger is direct, quick and dangerous when cutting inside from the left. His three goals at the Olympics highlighted his ability to deliver on big occasions, and AFCON could be his breakthrough moment at senior level.

2. Ibrahim Mbaye (Senegal - Paris Saint-Germain, France) At just 17, Mbaye arrives as one of the youngest players at the tournament. The PSG winger is fearless in one-on-one situations and ranks among Ligue 1’s leaders for dribble attempts. Having recently committed his international future to Senegal, AFCON 2025 could mark the start of a long international career.

3. Yan Diomandé (Cote d’Ivoire - RB Leipzig, Germany) Diomandé’s rise has been rapid and eye-catching. Since making his Bundesliga debut in March 2025, the 19-year-old has impressed with his pace, ball carrying and eye for goal. With Côte d’Ivoire defending their title, his creativity could be decisive, especially in the absence of Sébastien Haller.

4. Bilal El Khannouss (Morocco – Stuttgart, Germany) A key figure in Morocco’s Olympic bronze medal team, El Khannouss has transitioned smoothly to senior football in Germany. The 21-year-old midfielder thrives between the lines, offering vision and composure. Playing on home soil, he carries the responsibility of driving Morocco’s attack from midfield.

5. Christian Kofane (Cameroon - Bayer Leverkusen, Germany) Cameroon’s latest attacking prospect, Kofane combines physical strength with sharp finishing. The 19-year-old earned his move to Leverkusen after an impressive spell in Spain and has adapted quickly to a higher level. His ability to score goals could be crucial for the Indomitable Lions.

6. Kamory Doumbia (Mali - Brest, France) Doumbia is a modern midfielder, energetic, creative and tactically disciplined. The 22-year-old has impressed in Ligue 1 with his work rate and knack for arriving in scoring positions. For a Mali side aiming to go deep into the tournament, his versatility will be central.

7. Noah Sadiki (DR Congo - Sunderland, England) Sadiki has grown into a leader at club level, known for his stamina and defensive awareness. The 21-year-old midfielder covers ground relentlessly and ranks highly for interceptions. Translating that consistency to the international stage will be key for DR Congo.

8. Tawanda Chirewa (Zimbabwe - Wolverhampton Wanderers, England) Chirewa brings technical quality and vision to Zimbabwe’s midfield. The 22-year-old has shown flashes of his potential in the Premier League and will relish the opportunity to express himself on the continental stage.

9. Arsene Kouassi (Burkina Faso - Lorient, France) One of the most dynamic young full-backs in France, Kouassi offers pace and attacking threat from the left. At 21, his forward runs and delivery have become a major asset, making him a key figure in Burkina Faso’s tactical setup.

10. Jaouen Hadjam (Algeria - Young Boys, Switzerland) Hadjam is an attacking left-back known for his dribbling and creativity. His performances in Switzerland have drawn attention, and Algeria will look to his energy and flair as they seek to reclaim continental success.