LaLiga has announced the 20-man shortlist for the 2025/26 SPORTY LaLiga MVP Award, with Nigerian pair Akor Adams and Chidera Ejuke of Sevilla FC both earning nominations for the prestigious prize.
Now in its fifth edition, the award celebrates the growing influence of African footballers in LaLiga EA SPORTS, with 20 players shortlisted for their performances during the campaign. The award is organised in partnership with Sporty Group, reflecting a shared commitment to strengthening ties between Spanish and African football.
Nigeria is the only country with two players from the same club on the shortlist. Adams has been the standout performer of the pair this season. He has registered 7 goals and 3 assists across 24 LaLiga appearances, making him Sevilla's leading scorer in the league. His highlights include a goal in a 4-1 victory over Barcelona.
Adams has emerged as a favourite to become the second Nigerian to win the award after Samuel Chukwueze. Athletic Club captain Inaki Williams is chasing a third consecutive title and returns to the shortlist once again. Other notable nominees include Villarreal's Pape Gueye, Thomas Partey, and Nicolas Pepe, as well as Getafe's Djene Dakonam and Rayo Vallecano's Pathe Ciss.
Tresor Penku, Managing Director of LaLiga Africa, said African football has long been part of LaLiga's story, and its influence continues to grow every season.
Early voting trends show Pape Gueye leading with 24.1 per cent, followed by Nicolas Pepe on 20.4 per cent. Adams sits third with 14.8 per cent, while Williams holds 13 per cent and Djene Dakonam has 11.1 per cent. Ejuke is yet to make a strong early impression in the polls.
Voting will run until Sunday, May 10, 2026. The winner will be decided through a combination of fan votes from across Sub-Saharan Africa and a panel of expert judges including journalists and football stakeholders. The winner will be announced on May 23 in Lagos, coinciding with the final weekend of the LaLiga season.
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