Samuel Chukwueze, the winger for Villarreal, has been bestowed with the honor of being named the best African player in the 2022/2023 season of the Spanish La Liga. This recognition follows an exceptional season with the Yellow Submarine, where the Nigerian talent concluded the campaign with an impressive tally of 13 goals and 11 assists in all competitions. It marked his most productive season since joining Estadio de la Ceramica.
Chukwueze emerged victorious over fierce competition from two other prominent African players: Inaki Williams from Ghana, who secured the LaLiga Santander Mid-Season African MVP Award by netting 10 goals in 36 LaLiga matches for Athletic Club, and Yassine Bounou from Morocco, whose instrumental role helped Sevilla FC clinch the UEFA Europa League. Chukwueze’s remarkable performance has generated interest from various European clubs, including Real Madrid, Aston Villa, and Newcastle United.
“Samu is now savoring his well-deserved accolade, having been elected by over 30,000 fans and 26 journalists from the continent, triumphing over other esteemed African players such as Yassine Bono, Iñaki Williams, and Youssef En-Nesyri, among others,” Villarreal stated in reference to the Nigerian.
Expressing his response to the award, Chukwueze emphasized how the trust and belief of Coach Quique Setién propelled him to deliver his best throughout the season. The 24-year-old player also conveyed his hunger for further achievements, acknowledging his youth and the vast room for growth. “I am incredibly delighted to win this award,” he shared with La Liga’s website. “I have put in a lot of hard work this season, but I want to express my gratitude to my teammates for making this possible. Without them, this accomplishment would not have been achievable… and I am also grateful to the coach [Quique Setién]. When the coach believes in you and instills confidence in your abilities, it truly motivates you.”
“However,” he added, “I believe there is more I can accomplish. I aspire to continue working diligently. I am still young, and there is much more for me to learn. This is just the beginning.”
