Kylian Mbappe, Lamine Yamal, and Rafael Leao: The most valuable players among Africa’s lost talent in today’s soccer elite in 2025

In the modern era of soccer, national allegiances are not always determined by birthplace. Many players with African heritage choose to represent European nations, often due to soccer infrastructure, career opportunities, or personal decisions. This trend has led to some of the world’s most valuable players turning out for European powerhouses instead of African nations.

A look at the current soccer landscape reveals an astonishing list of players who could have chosen to play for an African country. Lamine Yamal, Kylian Mbappe, and Rafael Leao are among them, raising an intriguing question: What if these players had opted for their African roots instead?

The European Championship has long been a stage for historic rivalries, tactical brilliance, and moments of pure magic. However, in recent years, the tournament has also become a showcase of African talent—albeit wearing European jerseys.

At Euro 2024, over 50 players of African descent represented European nations, playing crucial roles in their teams’ success. From Bukayo Saka’s electrifying performances for England to Nico Williams and Lamine Yamal lighting up Spain’s attack, African heritage was evident throughout the tournament.

Many of these players have become cornerstones of European soccer, excelling at the highest level in club and international competitions. However, had they chosen differently, African soccer could have been on the verge of a historic World Cup triumph.

The most valuable players who could have represented African nations

One of the biggest “what ifs” in international soccer is the potential strength of African nations if more dual-nationality players opted for their ancestral homelands. Some of the world’s most valuable stars fall into this category, as per Transfermarkt.

Lamine Yamal – Spain (Equatorial Guinea) – $194m

At just 17 years old, Lamine Yamal has already made history, winning Euro 2024 and breaking multiple records. His dazzling dribbling, composure, and creativity have made him the most valuable player in the world. However, instead of donning La Roja’s colors, he could have represented Equatorial Guinea—the only officially Spanish-speaking country in Africa.

Kylian Mbappe – France (Cameroon) – $184m

Few players have had as big an impact on modern soccer as Kylian Mbappe. The French superstar is already a World Cup winner, multiple-time Ligue 1 champion, and among the most recognizable names in the sport. However, his father hails from Cameroon, and he could have followed in the footsteps of African legends like Samuel Eto’o.

Bukayo Saka – England (Nigeria) – $162m

The Arsenal winger has become a key figure for England, dazzling fans with his speed, skill, and goalscoring ability. Saka could have played for Nigeria, a nation rich in soccer history, alongside the likes of Victor Osimhen and Wilfred Ndidi.

Alexander Isak – Sweden (Eritrea) – $108m

One of the most underrated strikers in Europe, Isak’s power, agility, and finishing ability have made him a standout player for Newcastle and Sweden. However, he was also eligible to play for Eritrea, a nation still waiting for its first big breakthrough in international soccer.

William Saliba & Aurelien Tchouameni – France (Cameroon) – $86m each

France has long benefited from players with African roots, and two of its brightest stars, Saliba and Tchouameni, could have chosen Cameroon instead. Their presence would have added defensive steel and midfield dominance to an already exciting squad.

Rafael Leao – Portugal (Angola) – $81m

A nightmare for defenders, Rafael Leao’s speed and flair have made him a crucial player for Milan and Portugal. However, had he chosen differently, he could have represented Angola, following in the footsteps of former greats like Fabrice Akwa.

Nico Williams – Spain (Ghana) – $76m

Unlike his older brother Inaki Williams, who switched allegiances to Ghana, Nico chose to play for Spain. His pace and trickery have been vital for both club and country, but Ghanaian fans can only imagine what could have been.

Bradley Barcola – France (Togo) – $76m

A rising star at Paris Saint-Germain, Barcola is one of the most promising young wingers in Europe. However, he was also eligible for Togo, the country that once saw Emmanuel Adebayor lead them to the World Cup.

Eduardo Camavinga – France (Congo) – $76m

Real Madrid’s midfield maestro Camavinga was born in Angola to Congolese parents. His all-round abilities in midfield could have transformed Congo’s international prospects.