In the pulsating realm of African football, the stage is set for a spectacle of talent and youthful exuberance as AFCON 2023 unfolds. 

This tournament promises not only the drama and intensity that fans crave but also a showcase of the continent’s burgeoning young talents who are poised to leave an indelible mark on the beautiful game.

In this article, we shine a spotlight on the top 10 extraordinary players under the age of 21, each possessing a unique skill set and a fervent determination to make their presence felt on the grand stage. 

From dynamic wingers to defensive prodigies, these rising stars hail from diverse backgrounds, representing nations with rich footballing traditions.

1. Pape Matar Sarr

Pape Matar Sarr, a versatile 21-year-old midfielder, has been a crucial asset for Tottenham Hotspur. Despite facing an injury setback, Sarr’s impact for Senegal in Group C against Cameroon, Gambia, and Guinea is anticipated as he continues to grow in stature.

2. Dango Ouattara

At just 21 years old, Dango Ouattara has established himself as one of the most exciting young talents in African football. With an explosive playing style showcased at Bournemouth and Burkina Faso, Ouattara is set to be a key player for The Stallions in Group D at AFCON 2023.

3. Kamaldeen Sulemana

   Despite Southampton’s relegation, Kamaldeen Sulemana remains a pivotal player for Ghana. With 18 international caps at just 21 years old, Sulemana brings valuable experience to Group B, where Ghana faces Egypt, Cape Verde, and Mozambique in their quest for AFCON glory.

4. Yankuba Minteh

   Dubbed the “Messi” of Gambia, 19-year-old Yankuba Minteh has been turning heads with his performances at Feyenoord. Having earned his stripes in Denmark and making a notable impact on his national team debut, Minteh is ready to make waves in Group C alongside Cameroon, Senegal, and Guinea.

5. Fares Chaibi

Leading the new generation of Algerian talent, Fares Chaibi has been the heartbeat of Eintracht Frankfurt in the German Bundesliga. With a skillful and creative playing style, Chaibi aims to elevate Algeria’s performance in Group D against Angola, Burkina Faso, and Mauritania at AFCON 2023.

6. Bilal El Khannous

At only 19, Bilal El Khannous has already proven himself as a skilled midfielder at Genk. With three goals and three assists this season, he adds energy, mobility, and technique to Morocco’s midfield. El Khannous, who impressed against Brazil last year, is set to shine for the Atlas Lions at AFCON 2024.

7. Ousmane Diomande

Ivory Coast’s Ousmane Diomande, a 20-year-old central defender, has captured the attention of top clubs in Europe with his standout performances at Sporting Lisbon. With a promising start to his national team career, Diomande aims to replicate his club form in a challenging AFCON group against Nigeria, Equatorial Guinea, and Guinea-Bissau.

8. Amir Richardson

A 21-year-old lanky midfielder, Amir Richardson, has been a star for Reims, contributing three goals and one assist this season. His versatility as a central midfielder or playing further forward will be valuable for Morocco’s midfield in Côte d’Ivoire.

9. Karim Konate

Ivory Coast’s 19-year-old modern striker, Karim Konate, has impressed at RB Salzburg with 10 direct goal contributions (8 goals, 2 assists) this season. In a season where Sebastien Haller has struggled, Konate could surprise fans at this year’s AFCON event.

10. Ernest Nuamah

The 20-year-old Ghanaian, Ernest Nuamah, faced challenges with Lyon’s form but brings pace and trickiness to Ghana’s right wing. His impact may be crucial, especially if Mohamed Kudus shifts centrally or makes substitute appearances.