Onyedika Ebony Shoe nomination sees the Nigerian midfielder shortlisted for the 2026 award recognising top African players in Belgium

Raphael Onyedika, Nigerian midfielder for Club Brugge, on Monday, April 14, 2026, in Belgium, was named among five finalists for the 2026 Ebony Shoe award, recognising the best African player or player of African descent in the Belgian top flight.

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The Ebony Shoe nomination places the 23-year-old in a strong position as organisers unveiled a competitive shortlist for one of Belgium’s most prestigious individual football honours.

Onyedika is joined on the list by Promise David, Zakaria El Ouahdi, Parfait Guiagon and Adem Zorgane, all of whom delivered standout performances in the Belgian Pro League this season.

The award ceremony is scheduled for May 4 in Brussels, where the winner will succeed Tolu Arokodare, who claimed the 2025 edition after an impressive campaign with Genk.

Onyedika has been a key figure in Club Brugge’s midfield this season, making 25 league appearances and maintaining consistent performances both domestically and in Europe.

He also made an impact in the UEFA Champions League, scoring two goals before Brugge exited the competition at the knockout stage.

Promise David, another nominee, enjoyed a strong season with Union Saint-Gilloise, scoring 15 goals across all competitions before suffering a hip injury in February 2026.

David also registered two Champions League goals prior to his team’s elimination, underlining his attacking influence before his setback.

Both players are aiming to continue Nigeria’s strong legacy in the award, following past winners such as Daniel Amokachi, Victor Ikpeba, Godwin Okpara, Celestine Babayaro and Paul Onuachu.

The Ebony Shoe remains one of Belgian football’s most respected individual prizes, and the 2026 edition is expected to be closely contested given the quality of nominees.

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Onyedika’s nomination further highlights his growing reputation as one of Nigeria’s most promising midfield talents in European football.