Senegal and Al-Ahli goalkeeper Édouard Mendy has publicly criticized the Confederation of African Football (CAF), stating that his omission from their annual award shortlists has become "commonplace." The remarks were reported by multiple sports outlets, including Afrik-Foot, following the announcement of nominees for the 2023 awards.
Mendy, who was a key player in Senegal's 2021 Africa Cup of Nations victory and won the UEFA Champions League with Chelsea in 2021, was not included in the shortlist for the 2023 CAF Men's Player of the Year or Goalkeeper of the Year categories. In his comments, he expressed frustration with the selection process, suggesting a pattern of being overlooked despite his achievements.
The goalkeeper's criticism highlights ongoing debates about recognition and visibility for African players within the continent's own football governance. CAF has not issued an official public response to Mendy's specific comments as of late March 2026. The awards ceremony for the 2023 period was held in December 2023 in Marrakech, Morocco.
