Raphael Onyedika has been named among the nominees for the Ebony Shoe Award, which recognises the best African player or player of African descent in the Belgian Pro League. The Club Brugge midfielder has featured in 25 league matches this season, scoring one goal. Union Saint-Gilloise forward Promise David, who has Nigerian heritage, is also on the shortlist. They are joined by Zakaria El Ouahdi of Racing Genk, Parfait Guiagon from Charleroi, and Adem Zorgane of Royale Union Saint-Gilloise. The award winner will be revealed at Hotel Tangla in Brussels on Monday, May 4.
Nigerian players have a strong history with the award. Tolu Arokodare won it in the previous edition. Past recipients include Super Eagles legends Daniel Amokachi, who claimed the inaugural prize in 1992, as well as Victor Ikpeba, Godwin Okpara, Celestine Babayaro, and Paul Onuachu. The nomination continues Onyedika's steady rise in European football since his move to Club Brugge. David's inclusion highlights the growing presence of players with Nigerian roots in top Belgian clubs.
It is unusual for a midfielder with just one goal in 25 appearances to be in contention for a major individual award, yet Onyedika's nomination speaks volumes about the value of consistency and defensive intelligence in modern midfield play. His role at Club Brugge goes beyond scoring, anchoring transitions and disrupting opposition rhythm—qualities that may not light up stat sheets but are deeply appreciated by coaches and analysts.
The shortlist reflects the continued influence of African players in Belgium's top flight, with four Nigerians or players of Nigerian descent among the five nominees. That level of representation underscores how deeply Nigerian football talent is embedded in the league's structure. Onyedika's nomination, based on durability and performance in a title-contending team, adds weight to his growing reputation beyond Nigeria's borders.
For Nigerian fans, this is another signal that the Super Eagles' midfield depth is being tested and proven in competitive European leagues. Onyedika's visibility in such awards could strengthen his role in the national team's build-up play.
The award ceremony on May 4 may well mark another Nigerian triumph, continuing a legacy that began with Amokachi over three decades ago.
