Hakimi, Camara... top five Africans to watch in Ligue 1 this season

23.08.26 11:15 Ligue 1 France

Le Havre

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Monaco

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The official kick-off for the 2026–27 season of the French Ligue 1 is set for Friday, August 21, with a showdown between Olympique de Marseille and RC Strasbourg Alsace (18:45 GMT).

Let’s take a closer look at five African stars poised to make their mark on the French Ligue 1 this season.

Achraf Hakimi – PSG

The most decorated African player in history, Achraf Hakimi is gearing up for his sixth Ligue 1 campaign with Paris Saint-Germain.

The Atlas Lion has already featured in two Super Cup finals with Paris this season, lifting the European Super Cup against Aston Villa (2-1), but falling short in the Trophée des Champions against Lens (0-1).

The former Real Madrid full-back is chasing a third consecutive Champions League title with the Parisian club, having notched up 3 goals and 9 assists in 32 matches last season.

Lamine Camara – Monaco

Once tipped for a move away, Lamine Camara now looks set to stay at the Rock, especially with Florian Balogun’s possible departure set to fund Monaco’s transfer window.

Arriving from Metz in July 2024, the Senegal international (5 goals in 37 caps) has tallied 5 goals and 11 assists in 71 appearances for the Monégasques.

Amine Gouiri – Marseille

The Algerian’s future at OM remains uncertain, but for now, he’s expected to feature in the season opener against RCSA. He’s attracting interest from all over Europe.

The 26-year-old forward comes off a stellar season: 11 goals and 5 assists in 28 matches across all competitions.

Ismaëlo Ganiou – RC Lens

Having extended his contract with Les Sang et Or until 2030, Ismaëlo Ganiou continues to dazzle observers with his performances, especially in the Trophée des Champions triumph over Paris (1-0).

At just 21, the Burkinabé is the undisputed leader of the back line and boasts a ceiling that’s truly sky-high.

Patrick Zabi – Paris FC

Initially arriving at Reims as a promising youngster, the Ivorian’s meteoric rise earned him a contract with Paris FC.

At just 19, his trajectory seems destined for the very top, and he’ll be out to confirm his immense potential in Parisian colours this season.

Imed Ben Amara |

Editorar, fr

Imed Ben Amara - bilingual sports writer and web editor with experience in football content creation. Since 2021, he has contributed to Foot Africa, providing news coverage and analysis.

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