Villarreal CF’s Nigerian forward, Samuel Chukwueze, has emerged as the recipient of the prestigious 2022-23 LaLiga Santander African MVP Award.
Chukwueze claimed the top spot after garnering votes from thousands of fans and esteemed African football journalists, recognizing him as the standout African player in LaLiga this season.
Throughout the campaign, Chukwueze showcased his exceptional skills, contributing significantly to his team’s success.
His outstanding performances for the Yellow Submarine included an impressive tally of 13 goals and 11 assists across all competitions.
The dynamic Super Eagle appeared in 37 out of 38 LaLiga Santander matches, playing a vital role in propelling Villarreal CF to secure a spot in European competition for the upcoming season.
Expressing his joy at winning the award, Chukwueze humbly acknowledged the collective effort of his teammates, remarking:
“I feel so happy to win this award. I’ve worked very hard this season, but I want to thank my teammates for making it possible. Without them, this wouldn’t have been possible for me… and the coach [Quique Setién] too. When the coach believes in you and gives you the confidence to play and enjoy yourself, it really motivates you.”
However, Chukwueze remains determined to achieve even more, emphasizing his desire to continue working hard and acknowledging his ongoing development as a young player.
He expressed: “But I think I can still do more. I want to continue working hard. I’m still young, so I’m still learning. This is just the beginning.”
Chukwueze’s remarkable performances edged out fellow African standout, Iñaki Williams, who had been awarded the mid-season African MVP in LaLiga Santander.
Williams, the record-breaking forward from Athletic Club, achieved an incredible milestone by making 251 consecutive appearances for the Basque side over seven seasons, while also scoring 10 goals in 36 LaLiga matches this season.
The LaLiga Santander African MVP Award was determined through the combined votes of over 30,000 fans from across the continent and 26 African football journalists.
Among the contenders was the previous season’s recipient, Bounou, the talented Moroccan goalkeeper for Sevilla FC, who played a crucial role in securing the team’s seventh Uefa Europa League title through his penalty shootout heroics against AS Roma.
Nevertheless, it was Chukwueze who ultimately claimed the honor of the LaLiga Santander African MVP Award for the current season.
The Nigerian international’s consistent attacking prowess for Villarreal CF, coupled with his impressive 155 dribbles—ranking among the top three in LaLiga Santander—solidified his status as one of the league’s most exhilarating players to watch.
One of Chukwueze’s standout moments occurred during a thrilling 3-2 victory against Real Madrid at the Santiago Bernabeu, where he scored two sensational goals, garnering global headlines.