African Players have a strong tradition of excellence in the UEFA Europa League, and the following five stars from our continent are set to light up the 2025/26 edition of the tournament.
Evan Ndicka
Evan Ndicka will be a defensive cornerstone for Roma in the 2025–26 UEFA Europa League, anchoring the backline with experience, athleticism, and consistency. A former Europa League winner with Eintracht Frankfurt, Ndicka brings continental know-how and composure, qualities Roma will rely on heavily as they navigate across Europe’s second-tier competition.
His durability stands out – he played every minute of Roma’s 2024–25 Serie A season, underscoring his importance and reliability in high-stakes matches.
As Roma manage and squad rotation under Gian Piero Gasperini’s demanding system, Ndicka’s leadership and defensive solidity will be vital to their Europa League campaign.
Zaidu Sanusi
Zaidu Sanusi arrives at Porto in the 2025–26 season with a renewed opportunity to impact their Europa League campaign. After enduring over a year out due to an ACL injury, he’s now back in
action – and notably included in the squad under new coach Francesco Farioli – indicating fresh
trust in his abilities.
Known for his blistering speed, tactical discipline, and attacking support from left-back, Sanusi can offer depth and dynamism on the flank. If he stays fit, he stands poised to be a vital rotational option and a decisive presence in Europe.
Cedric Bakambu
Cédric Bakambu is set to remain a pivotal attacking option for Real Betis in the 2025–26 UEFA Europa League. Having turned down a transfer offer from Greece, he confirmed his commitment
to the club and is expected to be a key part of Manuel Pellegrini’s plans this season.
As Real Betis may not pursue fresh striker reinforcements, Bakambu’s experience and goal-scoring instinct – evident in his historic Conference League run – could be invaluable.
Youssef En-Nesyri
Youssef En-Nesyri is poised to lead Fenerbahçe’s attack in the 2025–26 UEFA Europa League.
Since joining on a record-breaking five-year deal in July 2024, he’s been a prolific scorer and
become a fan-favourite in Istanbul.
His form comes at a critical juncture, as the club continues to rely on the Moroccan’s finishing prowess on the European stage. Assuming he remains the manager’s preferred center-forward, En-Nesyri’s goalscoring flair and consistency will be central to Fenerbahçe’s Europa League ambitions.
Clinton Mata
Clinton Mata is poised to be a vital defensive mainstay for Lyon in the 2025–26 UEFA Europa
League. The versatile Angolan right-back, capable of filling in at center-back, recently extended
his contract with OL through 2028, underscoring his importance amid squad turnover.
Having featured in nine Europa League games last season, he brings valuable European experience and consistency to the backline. As Lyon rebuild around youthful talent, Mata’s leadership, adaptability, and resilience between the lines will anchor their defensive ambitions as they chase continental success.
Final thoughts
The 2025/26 Europa League line-up is a bold blend of elite contenders, storied clubs, and fresh
debutants. The new league-style phase – where each team plays eight unique opponents –
ensures no two seasons feel alike.
With kick off on 24 – 25 September, the 55 th edition of this competition promises sweeping
drama, unpredictable results, and a pathway right through to the final in Istanbul on 20 May 2026, at Beşiktaş Stadium.
Get ready: every matchday matters, every newcomer brings a story, and the race to continental glory is poised to thrill from day one. Pay your subscription and never miss a game.
Whether it’s chasing titles, fighting for survival, or rebuilding legacies, watch your team go for
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