Samuel Chukwueze Named LaLiga African Player Of The Season.

Nigeria and Villarreal winger Samuel Chukwueze has been named LaLiga's African Player of the Season.

Chukwueze saw off competition from Sevilla’s Morocco internationals goalkeeper Yassine Bounou and forward Youssef En-Nesyri, Athletic Bilbao and Black Stars of Ghana striker Inaki Williams who scored 10 goals in 36 LaLiga matches this season, in which he set an incredible record of making 251 consecutive League apperances for the Basque side over seven seasons.

Chukwueze emerged the winner after being voted for by more than 30,000 fans from across the world, and 26 journalists from Africa.

Despite starting the season as an inconsequential figure at Villarreal, the arrival of manager, Quique Setien saw a remarkable turnaround in his form.

The Super Eagles star scored six league goals and five assists, including a sensational brace in the 3-2 win against Real Madrid at the Santiago Bernabeu Stadium on April 8, 2023 which made headlines across the world.

He played 37 of the 38 LaLiga matches this season, starting 27 of them. In all competitions, he scored 13 goals and producing 11 assists for the Yellow Submarine, making it the first time he would be hitting double digits for goals and assists in a season.

It is the 24-year-old’s most productive season since his arrival at the Estadio de la Ceramica.

Chukwueze's impressive form, has seen top European clubs like Real Madrid joining West Ham United, Aston Villa in the race to sign him this summer, with the forward now reportedly valued at €50m (£43m).

His contract with the La Liga outfit expires next summer, with Villarreal standing a chance to loose him for free next summer of they don't sell now.

“I feel so happy to win this award,” said Chukwueze. “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.

“But I think I can still do more,” he added. “I want to continue working hard. I’m still young. so I’m still learning. This is just the beginning.”