Bounou, Mendy and Vozinha Carry Africa’s Hopes for 2026 Goalkeeper of the Year
Africa will have three representatives in contention for the prestigious 2026 Men’s Goalkeeper of the Year award, with Morocco’s Yassine Bounou, Senegal’s Édouard Mendy and Cape Verde’s Vozinha all earning places on the 10-man shortlist.
The nominations highlight Africa’s growing presence among the world’s elite goalkeepers, with the three shot-stoppers selected alongside some of the biggest names in international football.
Bounou, who has established himself as one of the continent’s leading goalkeepers, is among the favourites after another impressive period at both club and international level. The Moroccan has continued to earn recognition for his consistency, commanding presence and ability to deliver in high-pressure matches.
Senegal international Édouard Mendy also makes the shortlist. The experienced goalkeeper has remained one of Africa’s most prominent figures between the posts and will be hoping to add another major individual honour to his career.
Cape Verde’s Vozinha completes the African contingent. The veteran goalkeeper has been a key figure for his national team and his inclusion represents another significant milestone for Cape Verdean football on the global stage.
They will, however, face strong competition from some of Europe and South America’s finest goalkeepers.
The presence of three African goalkeepers among the final 10 nominees underlines the continent’s growing influence in the global game and gives Africa a strong chance of claiming the prestigious award.
The winner will be determined from the shortlisted candidates, with Bounou, Mendy and Vozinha carrying Africa’s hopes of securing the honour.
Below is the complete list of nominees for the 2026 Men’s Goalkeeper of the Year award:
Yassine Bounou – Morocco
Thibaut Courtois – Belgium
Joan García – Spain
Gregor Kobel – Switzerland
Emiliano Martínez – Argentina
Édouard Mendy – Senegal
David Raya – Spain
Matvey Safonov – Russia
Unai Simón – Spain
Vozinha – Cape Verde
