LALIGA African MVP Award: Umar Sadiq missing as Inaki Williams beats Real Madrid dribbler to claim honour

Inaki Williams with his LALIGA EA SPORTS African MVP Award after beating Real Madrid's Brahim Diaz.

LALIGA African MVP Award: Umar Sadiq missing as Inaki Williams beats Real Madrid dribbler to claim honour

Izuchukwu Akawor • Izuchukwu Akawor • 11:16 - 20.05.2024

Inaki Williams saw off competition from the Real Madrid man in the LALIGA African Award voted for by journalists from 31 countries and fans.

The LALIGA EA SPORTS African MVP Award, a prestigious accolade recognizing exceptional talent in Spain's top-flight league, has named Inaki Williams ahead of a Real Madrid star as the best African player in the 2023/24 season.

The Ghanaian international and Athletic Club forward emerged victorious after a rigorous voting process, capturing 46 points, which represented 24% of the total votes. 

Inaki Williams sees off Real Madrid's challenge

This impressive tally saw Williams edge out a strong field of contenders, showcasing his unparalleled skill and dedication throughout the campaign.

Moroccan duo Brahim Diaz of Real Madrid and Youssef En-Nesyri of Sevilla FC finished second and third respectively, with 37 and 30 points while Nigeria's Umar Sadiq missed out.

Inaki Williams celebrating his goal against Girona in Laliga
Inaki Williams celebrating his goal against Girona in Laliga | IMAGO

The voting process, meticulously conducted by a jury comprising African journalists from 31 countries and fan votes, awarded points based on the players' performances. 

One point was allocated for the third-best player, two points for the second-best, and three points for the best player. In the event of a tie, the player with more selections as the best player claimed the victory.

Ghana's Inaki Williams with the LALIGA EA SPORTS African MVP Award
Ghana's Inaki Williams with the LALIGA EA SPORTS African MVP Award

Upon receiving the trophy from Athletic Club legend Andoni Goikoetxea, a delighted Williams expressed his gratitude, saying;

"Thank you very much for the acknowledgement. It is an honor to represent all African players in LaLiga. My roots in Ghana are as deep as my love for Bilbao and Athletic Club. I hope to be in contention for this same award next season."

Moroccan star Brahim Diaz's outstanding season for Real Madrid sees him finish second
Moroccan star Brahim Diaz's outstanding season for Real Madrid sees him finish second. (Photo Credit: Real Madrid/X)

This edition of the LALIGA EA SPORTS African MVP Award witnessed one of the most closely contested races in recent memory. 

Notable mentions include Hamari Traore of Real Sociedad, Bertrand Traore of Villarreal CF, and Jonathan Bamba of RC Celta.

The LALIGA EA SPORTS African MVP Award celebrates the immense talent and impact of African players within the Spanish top-flight league.

Morocco's Youssef En-Nesyri was a frontrunner for the African MVP award.
Morocco's Youssef En-Nesyri was a frontrunner for the African MVP award.

 Past winners, such as Yassine Bounou of Sevilla FC and Nigeria’s Samuel Chukwueze, during his time at Villarreal CF, have set a high standard, and Inaki's triumph this season is a testament to the continued excellence of African footballers in LALIGA.

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