Nigeria’s Moses Simon has been nominated for the 2025 Marc-Vivien Foé Award, which recognizes the best African player in France’s Ligue 1.
The FC Nantes winger, who has been in superb form this season, is aiming to become the third Nigerian to win the prestigious honor, following Vincent Enyeama (2014) and Victor Osimhen (2020).
Simon has been a key figure for Nantes, recording seven goals and eight assists in 25 league appearances. His direct involvement in nearly half of the team’s goals highlights his crucial role, even as the club endures a challenging campaign. This marks Simon’s fourth nomination for the award, after previous shortlistings in 2020, 2022, and 2024.
He is among 12 contenders, including Morocco’s Achraf Hakimi (PSG) and Ivory Coast’s Evann Guessand (OGC Nice). The winner of the award will be determined by a jury of nearly 100 journalists specializing in French and African football, based on performances throughout the season.
Eligibility criteria require nominees to have represented an African national team, played at least 15 Ligue 1 matches, and not switched their international allegiance during their careers. Since its inception, the Marc-Vivien Foé Award has celebrated African excellence in French football.
Enyeama made history in 2014 as the first goalkeeper and Nigerian to claim the prize, while Osimhen’s outstanding 2019/20 season with Lille earned him the award before his high-profile move to Napoli. With Simon on the final shortlist, expectations are high that another Super Eagles star could take home the award.
The winner of the 2025 Marc-Vivien Foé Award will be announced later this year. Simon’s nomination is a testament to his hard work and dedication to his craft. As he battles it out with Hakimi and other contenders, Nigerian football fans will be eagerly awaiting the outcome. Will Simon emerge victorious and bring home the prestigious award? Only time will tell.