Ghana midfielder Caleb Yirenkyi has been nominated for the Young Male Player of the Year award at the 2026 CAF Awards after an impressive year for club and country. The 20-year-old is among 10 players shortlisted for the individual award, which recognizes the best young talent in African football. Yirenkyi was one of the players who stood out in the World Cup20 and made a strong impression on the world stage. He scored the winning goal against Panama to help the Black Stars to a crucial win in the group stage. His performances during the tournament further raised his profile and contributed to his move to English football, with Premier League side Coventry City securing his services. The nomination is further recognition of the midfielder’s rapid progression and is establishing himself as one of Ghana’s young prospects. His ability to operate in midfield, contribute defensively and influence in the attacking third has made him an important player for club and country. However, Yirenkyi faces strong competition for the award. The shortlist includes several highly-rated young players from across the continent, including Bayer Leverkusen’s Ibrahim Maza, Barcelona youngster Hamza Abdelkarim, Christian Kofane and Jan Diomande. Other candidates Christ Inao, Ismal Kamissoko, Abdellah Ouazane, Ayoub Bouaddi and Ibrahima Mbaye will hope to show enough progress at the world cup. win the continental prize when the winner is announced at the 2026 CAF Awards on December 7, 2026 in Lagos, Nigeria.