The Confederation of African Football (CAF) will crown the continent's top player at the CAF Awards on Monday at the Palais des Congrès in Marrakech, Morocco as well as exceptional performances across various categories, recognizing the achievements of African football stars in 2024.
Interestingly, this year’s award will see a new champion crowned as last year’s winner Victor Osimhen, and Egyptian icon Mohamed Salah both missed out on making the final shortlist.
Ahead of the announcement, Guinea skipper Keita voiced his support for compatriot Serhou Guirassy, backing him to claim the prestigious award, although he acknowledges the impressive efforts of former RB Leipzig teammate Ademola Lookman.
"This is hard for me. We’re all rooting for Guirassy, and I really want us to bring this award home. But all the best to Lookman - he’s my guy. We played together during my time at RB Leipzig," Keita told Flashscore.com, highlighting both his patriotism and friendship.
Despite receiving multiple nominations for the CAF African Player of the Year award during his career in England, the Champions League winner never managed to claim the prestigious himself.
Regardless, he has no regrets stating: "There is nothing to regret about. I am glad to have been nominated for this prestigious award, and while I would have loved to win, that didn’t happen.
"You have to give credit to the winners during those times as well. I am proud of what I have accomplished in football and remain focused on achieving even more."
On the other hand, Fae feels Nigeria and Atalanta's Ademola Lookman is deserving of the CAF African Player of the Year award, but expresses his hope that his own player Simon Adingra, who plays for Brighton, emerges as the winner.
"I would love for Adingra to win, as it would be a personal pleasure, but Lookman also deserves the award," he told Flashscore.com
"He performed exceptionally well during AFCON, scoring goals, and had a fantastic season with Atalanta. His three goals in the Europa League final were especially impressive. I truly believe he deserves to win the award."
He highlights Adingra's impressive performances, acknowledging the important role the winger has played for both his club and country throughout the year.
Fae stated: "Adingra is a fantastic player - he's like my kid. He's not just talented but also a great person. He's someone who can make a difference at any moment, and it's a pleasure to have him in my team.
"He brings so much to the table and is destined for the top. Hopefully, he stays in great form for us moving forward."
Fae is excited about his nomination in the Men's Coach of the Year category at the 2024 CAF Awards.
"I feel very happy because I started the Africa Cup of Nations as an assistant coach," he added.
"We lost to Nigeria, came close to elimination, but then turned it around by defeating Senegal, Mali, and finally Nigeria in the final to win the competition.
"It was an emotional journey for me as a young coach, and I’m very proud of what we have achieved this year."
Fae’s journey at the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations was nothing short of remarkable. Initially serving as the assistant coach to Jean-Louis Gasset, he stepped up to lead the Cote d'Ivoire national team after Gasset’s resignation following the group stages.
Under Fae's guidance, the Elephants experienced a stunning turnaround, ultimately lifting the trophy. His leadership through this challenging period earned him widespread recognition and contributed to his nomination.
