The UEFA Champions League has returned, and Europe’s premier club competition continues to excite fans the world over.
African fans can count on seeing a number of top performers from the continent taking part in the Champions League for many of the best clubs in Europe.
Here are 12 Africans to keep an eye out for during the 2016-17 UEFA Champions League season.
The Gabon striker and current African Player of the Year is his team’s star up front, and will need to perform in the Champions League if the Germans are to progress from Group F, which includes title-holders Real Madrid, Legia Warsaw and Sporting Lisbon.
Riyad Mahrez – Leicester City
The Algerian striker began his Champions League career with a bang, scoring two goals for Leicester City on their debut to secure a 3-0 away win over Club Brugge. His instincts in attack, confidence and skill set him apart as a player that opposition defenders fear.
Kelechi Iheanacho – Manchester City
Everything Iheanacho touches seems to turn to gold, and the 19-year-old will certainly feature prominently in Pep Guardiola’s Manchester City squad in the Champions League this season, thanks to the 14 goals he scored last term in his debut campaign.
Kalidou Koulibaly – Napoli
Koulibaly recently signed an extension to his Napoli deal, ending speculation of a move away from the club for the moment. The Italians have done well to cement his future at the club, as he is a strong and determined defender that solidifies the backline like few can.
Alex Iwobi – Arsenal
The Nigerian striker is growing into his role with the Gunners, having impressed last season when injuries saw him thrust into the limelight. His composure at the young age of 20 is incredible, and coach Arsene Wenger’s experience nurturing youngsters will certainly mean he will pose a threat in the Champions League when given a chance to shine.
Mehdi Benatia – Juventus
The experienced Moroccan defender made the switch from Bayern Munich to Juventus during the European summer, and he will no doubt provide the Bianconeri with a reliable defensive option to thwart attacks from follow Group H clubs Lyon, Sevilla and Dinamo Zagreb.
Islam Slimani – Leicester City
Algerian striker Islam Slimani scored 27 goals in the Portuguese Primeira Liga last season. Leicester City coach Claudio Ranieri will be hoping for more of the same from Slimani in the Champions League, having completed his transfer to the English champions.
Serge Aurier – Paris Saint-Germain
The combative 23-year-old right-back adds strength to his French club’s backline, while providing them with a wide option capable attacking at speed on the wing. His contribution in this season’s Champions League campaign will be vital, with clubs like Arsenal, FC Basel and Ludogorets standing in the way of their progression from Group A.
Yacine Brahimi – Porto
Algerian playmaker Brahimi has been one of the most consistent performers for his Portuguese club in recent seasons, including contributions in the Champions League. The 26-year-old midfielder has scored seven goals in the competition in previous seasons.
Thomas Partey – Atletico Madrid
The 2015-16 UEFA Champions League runner-up with Atletico returns to the competition this year with a determination to go one step further. His hard work as a defensive midfielder makes the 23-year-old an asset for the Spanish outfit.
Seydou Doumbia – FC Basel
The 28-year-old Cote D’Ivoire striker is part of the Swiss outfit this year, and will no doubt be a key element of their attacking force in the Champions League. His experience in the competition will be critical against Group A rivals Arsenal and Paris Saint-Germain.
Victor Wanyama – Tottenham Hotspur
The Kenyan midfielder moved to North London from Southampton in the transfer window, and is enjoying a return to Champions League football after his Celtic days. The combative midfielder will play an important part in winning the ball and relaunching attacks for Spurs.