Mohamed Salah has once again carved his name into football history. The Egyptian forward was crowned the Professional Footballers’ Association (PFA) Players’ Player of the Year for the 2024/25 season on Tuesday night at the Manchester Opera House, becoming the first player ever to win the prestigious award three times.
For Africa, this is not just another accolade in a decorated career — it is a moment of continental pride. Salah’s achievement reinforces his place as one of the greatest African footballers of all time and underlines the growing influence of African stars on the global stage.
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A Season of Brilliance
At 33, many wondered if Salah could maintain his blistering standards in the demanding environment of the Premier League. Instead, the Egyptian delivered his most complete campaign yet.
29 goals – the highest tally in the league.
18 assists – also topping the charts.
A driving force in Liverpool’s Premier League title triumph, their first since 2020.
Salah wasn’t just a scorer; he was a creator, linking seamlessly with Liverpool’s new-look attack. Alongside Alexis Mac Allister and Ryan Gravenberch in midfield, he found balance between leadership and lethal finishing, cementing his role as the heartbeat of Jurgen Klopp’s side in what was a redemption season for the Reds.
Historic Third Triumph
Salah’s third PFA award adds another layer to his legendary status. Having first won in 2017/18, during his record-breaking debut season at Liverpool, and again in 2021/22, this latest honor makes him the only player to collect the award three times.
Not even Thierry Henry, Cristiano Ronaldo, or Kevin De Bruyne — all of whom won it twice — managed this feat. For Africa, Salah has achieved what no player from the continent had before. He stands alone at the pinnacle of English football recognition, voted for directly by his fellow professionals.
The 2024/25 shortlist was stacked with talent. Bruno Fernandes, despite Manchester United’s struggles, was one of the Premier League’s most creative midfielders. Alexander Isak, Newcastle’s talisman and reported Liverpool transfer target, finished as the league’s second top scorer. Arsenal’s Declan Rice anchored the Gunners’ midfield, while Chelsea’s Cole Palmer continued his breakthrough with dazzling numbers. Salah’s own teammate, Alexis Mac Allister, was also nominated after a commanding debut season at Anfield.
Yet, Salah’s unmatched consistency and decisive contributions set him apart. In the end, the votes from his peers reflected what millions of fans already knew: no one dominated the league quite like the Egyptian King.
The African Pride
For Egyptians, Salah’s latest triumph is a testament to a player who has carried the nation’s footballing hopes for nearly a decade. But for Africa at large, his recognition is another reminder that the continent’s best can consistently outshine Europe’s finest.
From George Weah’s Ballon d’Or win in 1995, to Didier Drogba’s Chelsea heroics, to Yaya Touré’s midfield dominance at Manchester City, African players have always left their mark on world football. Salah’s record-setting third PFA award cements his place among — if not above — these legends.
Back home, Cairo’s streets buzzed with celebrations following the announcement. Social media across Africa lit up with tributes, with fans calling Salah not only Egypt’s greatest footballer but also Africa’s most decorated in the modern era.
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Beyond the Numbers
While statistics highlight his brilliance, Salah’s impact extends further. His discipline, professionalism, and humility continue to inspire millions of young African players who dream of making it to Europe’s top leagues.
What Comes Next
Salah’s journey — from humble beginnings in Nagrig, a small village in Egypt, to the bright lights of Anfield and the global stage — is a story of perseverance. His relentless drive has made him a role model far beyond football, influencing discussions about African excellence, cultural representation, and the power of sport to inspire.
Salah’s future at Liverpool had been the subject of transfer speculation throughout last season, with rumors linking him to Saudi Pro League clubs. However, his decision to sign a contract extension earlier this summer has silenced doubts. With his personal silverware secured and Liverpool back on top of the Premier League, Salah’s focus is now on defending the title and chasing the Champions League trophy, the one piece missing from his recent campaigns.
The Reds kicked off the new season with a 4–2 win over Bournemouth, with Salah once again on the scoresheet. Next up is a trip to Newcastle, where the Egyptian will face off against Isak — one of the players he beat to the PFA crown.
A Legacy Beyond Football
Mohamed Salah’s latest award is more than a personal achievement; it is a statement of Africa’s enduring presence in global football. For millions of fans across the continent, his journey is proof that African talent not only belongs at the highest level but can dominate it.
In lifting the PFA Players’ Player of the Year trophy for a historic third time, Salah has not just made history for Liverpool or for himself — he has once again carried the pride of an entire continent to the summit of world football.