The timing of the African cup of nations may have come as an inconvenience to players and clubs in the European club season but it will also be a time for some African talents to shine. The question however is who?
The likes of Sadio Mane (Senegal) and Mohammed Salah (Egypt) have already gained global recognition following their wins playing for Liverpool. Not forgetting Riyad Mahrez of Manchester City and Algeria, who won the last tournament with his country in 2019.
So far, most of the names that have popped up are unknown but there are hopes that AFCON 2021 will shoot some of them to stardom, of course, based on their performance.
These are highlights of some of the players who have the potential to shine in the tournament before it ends on February 6.