Ghana midfielder Caleb Yirenkyi has earned a nomination for the 2026 CAF Men’s Young Player of the Year award following an impressive year for both club and country.

The 20-year-old is among 10 players shortlisted for the prestigious individual accolade, which recognises the outstanding young talent in African football.

Yirenkyi enjoyed a memorable campaign with the Black Stars at the 2026 FIFA World Cup, where he emerged as one of Ghana’s standout performers.

The talented midfielder made a significant impact on the global stage, scoring the winning goal against Panama to hand Ghana an important group-stage victory.

His impressive displays at the tournament further enhanced his reputation and attracted attention from clubs in Europe, eventually leading to a move to English football, with Premier League side Coventry City securing his services.

The nomination represents another major milestone in Yirenkyi’s rapidly developing career, having established himself as one of Ghana’s most promising young footballers.

His versatility, work rate, defensive contribution and ability to influence proceedings in the attacking third have strengthened his growing reputation as a midfielder with considerable potential.

However, the Ghanaian faces stiff competition for the continental award, with several highly rated youngsters also making the 10-man shortlist.

Among the nominees are Bayer Leverkusen’s Ibrahim Maza, Barcelona youngster Hamza Abdelkarim, Christian Kofane and Yan Diomande.

The other contenders are Christ Inao, Ismaël Kamissoko, Abdellah Ouazane, Ayoub Bouaddi and Ibrahima Mbaye.

Yirenkyi will be hoping his impressive performances at the World Cup and continued development at club level will earn him the prestigious continental honour.

The winner will be announced at the 2026 CAF Awards ceremony scheduled for December 7, 2026, in Lagos, Nigeria.