AFCON 2019 will take center stage in 11 days time and all attention will be shifted to Egypt as 24 countries battle for glory.

African players had a very wonderful season in Europe, especially in England where three Africans emerged as joint top scorer in the country's top-flight league.

Mohamed Salah (Liverpool), Sadio Mane (Liverpool), Kalidou Koulibaly (Napoli) , Ismaila Sarr (Rennes), Christian Atsu (Newcastle United), and Wilfred Ndidi (Leicester City) were very important to their respective clubs, and their country will be looking up to them in Egypt.


1) Mohamed Salah : No player deserves the first spot on the list than the Egyptian striker, who will be hoping to lead his country to glory in front of his compatriots.

The Liverpool star propelled the Reds to their first trophy under Jurgen Klopp as he scored from the spot to help Liverpool defeat Tottenham in the Champions League final. He is definitely one to watch.

2) Sadio Mane : Though the Senegalese striker didn't get the accolades he deserves, Mane's contribution to Liverpool's Champions League triumph can't be overlooked.

He scored 22 Premier League goals and he will be expected to help his West African team win their first AFCON trophy in their history.

3) Riyad Mahrez : The Manchester City winger will want to continue with his club form for Algeria at the tournament.

Though he didn't feature in many matches for Premier League champions Manchester City, Mahrez remains one player whose pace and skill are unmatchable to many defenders.

4) Alex Iwobi : The Gunners winger had a mixed season with the North London club  but his electrifying pace and wonderful footwork will make him stand out in Egypt.

Iwobi helped Unai Emery's men to the Europa League final but his beautiful goal against Chelsea wasn't enough to win the glory.

He will be hoping to have a remarkable outing with the rest of his Super Eagles teammates.

5) Wilfried Zaha : The Crystal Palace man is the fifth player on our list based on his wonderful performances with the Eagles throughout the just concluded season.

The former England youth-teamer will carry Ivory Coast's dream of winning the tournament for the second time in four years.

Ibukun Italoye