AFCON 2025: Hakimi, Osimhen and Mbeumo Headline Most Valuable XI
The 35th edition of the Africa Cup of Nations kicks off this weekend in Morocco, with 24 nations vying for continental glory and the chance to lift the trophy on January 18.
Egypt, the most successful nation in AFCON history, will once again look to Mohamed Salah to inspire them to an eighth crown, though the Liverpool star has yet to taste success in the competition.
Despite Egypt’s pedigree, Morocco enter the tournament as favourites. Walid Regragui’s side made history at the 2022 World Cup by becoming the first African nation to reach the semi-finals, and they boast Achraf Hakimi, recently crowned African Player of the Year and the most valuable footballer at AFCON.
Using Transfermarkt’s market valuations, a combined XI of the most valuable players at the tournament has now been revealed.
Eight nations are represented in the lineup, which carries a staggering total valuation of €559 million.
Leading the attack is Nigeria’s Victor Osimhen, who shoulders immense responsibility after his country missed out on World Cup qualification. He is flanked by Egypt’s Omar Marmoush and Cameroon’s Bryan Mbeumo, both of whom ply their trade in Manchester.
The midfield trio features Ademola Lookman, Brighton’s Carlos Baleba, and Senegal’s Pape Matar Sarr.
Baleba, despite enduring a difficult season, remains the most valuable midfielder at AFCON. Hakimi anchors the defence as the standout star, while at the other end of the valuation scale, goalkeeper Yehvann Diouf is the least expensive member of the XI at €9 million.
