African players have left a huge mark on the Premier League in the 21st century, bringing skill, strength, and unforgettable moments that have helped shape the modern game in England.
From title-winning legends to record-breaking scorers, their influence on the pitch has gone far beyond borders.
This list celebrates the very best African players to grace the Premier League since the year 2000 — not just for their individual brilliance, but for their legacy and what they gave to their clubs.
Ranking Criteria
Each player on this list is ranked based on a combination of the following:
Years Active in the Premier League Longevity and consistency in England’s top flight.
Trophies Won Premier League titles, domestic cups, and major European honours.
Individual Contribution & Legacy Goals, assists, key performances, leadership, impact on big games, and influence on their club’s success.
10.Thomas Partey (Ghana) – Arsenal
Years Active in PL: 2020–Present
Premier League Clubs: Arsenal
Position: Defensive Midfielder
Thomas Partey has been a consistent presence in Arsenal’s midfield since arriving from Atlético Madrid in 2020. Though his time has been disrupted by injuries, when fully fit, he’s been one of the Premier League’s most dominant holding midfielders.
His future is uncertain at the moment but he’s not longer part of Arsenal Footblal club.
9. Kolo Touré (Ivory Coast) – Arsenal, Manchester City, Liverpool
Years Active: 2002–2016
Position: Centre-back
Premier League Titles: 2 (Arsenal 2003/04, Man City 2011/12)
A vital member of Arsenal’s “Invincibles”, Kolo Touré has strength, tactical awareness, and leadership. He also helped Manchester City win their first Premier League title in 44 years.
8. Michael Essien (Ghana) – Chelsea
Years Active: 2005–2014
Position: Midfielder
Premier League Titles: 2 (2005/06, 2009/10)
Michael Essien made his name as a powerful, all-action midfielder who could do it all. Whether breaking up play or driving forward with the ball, he brought incredible energy and strength to the middle of the park. Nicknamed “The Bison”, his tough tackling and tireless work rate made him a force in every game he played.
7. Yakubu Aiyegbeni (Nigeria) – Portsmouth, Middlesbrough, Everton, Blackburn
Years Active: 2003–2012
Position: Striker
PL Goals: 95 goals in 252 matches
The highest-scoring Nigerian in Premier League history. Yakubu’s physicality and sharp finishing made him a nightmare for defenders across multiple clubs.
6. Yaya Touré (Ivory Coast) – Manchester City
Years Active: 2010–2018
Position: Midfielder
Premier League Titles: 3
Arguably one of the most complete midfielders in Premier League history. His 20-goal season in 2013/14 helped City secure the title. Touré brought power, grace, and goals from midfield.
5. Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang (Gabon) – Arsenal, Chelsea
Years Active: 2018–2023
Premier League Golden Boot: 2018/19 (22 goals, joint)
Despite joining mid-career, Aubameyang made an immediate impact. He won the Golden Boot, captained Arsenal to an FA Cup, and scored 68 Premier League goals in just 128 games for the Gunners.
4. Sadio Mané (Senegal) – Southampton, Liverpool
Years Active: 2014–2022
Premier League Titles: 1 (2019/20)
Golden Boot: 2018/19
Mané’s relentless pressing, goal threat, and partnership with Salah and Firmino drove Liverpool’s golden era. He scored 100+ Premier League goals and was loved for his humility and consistency.
3. Didier Drogba (Ivory Coast) – Chelsea
Years Active: 2004–2012, 2014–2015
Premier League Titles: 4
Golden Boots: 2 (2006/07, 2009/10)
The ultimate big-game player. Drogba’s combination of physical dominance, clutch finishing, and leadership made him a Chelsea legend. He was the first African superstar in the modern Premier League era and paved the way for others.
2. Riyad Mahrez (Algeria) – Leicester City, Manchester City
Years Active: 2014–2023
Position: Winger
Premier League Titles: 5 (1 with Leicester, 4 with Man City)
Mahrez was instrumental in Leicester’ fairytale 2015/16 title win and became a consistent performer at Manchester City. His dribbling and creativity were key weapons under Pep Guardiola.
1. Mohamed Salah (Egypt) – Chelsea, Liverpool
Years Active: 2014–present
Premier League Titles: 2 (2019/20) and 2024/25
Golden Boots: 4 (2017/18, 2018/19, 2021/22 and 2025/25)
Salah is a generational talent. He redefined the modern winger role, became Liverpool’s all-time Premier League top scorer, and helped them win the league after 30 years. One of Africa’s greatest exports.
Honourable Mentions:
Wilfried Zaha (Ivory Coast) – Crystal Palace
John Obi Mikel (Nigeria) – Chelsea
Nwankwo Kanu (Nigeria)
