5 European-born footballers now playing for African countries

desmond frimpong

December 9, 2017 7:55 PM

Business Insider Sub Saharan Africa puts a spotlight on 5 of them.

For every positive African assimilation like Moroccan defender Mehdi Benatia, who is doing well at Juventus, there are those who are equally as turbulent as they are talented. Kevin-Prince Boateng is a good example. Yet, a new wave of European-based stars are playing for African nations with pride.

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Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang

He hails from a footballing family; his father is a former Gabon international and his two elder brothers are fellow professionals. The speedy and skilful Aubameyang was born in Europe but chose to represent Gabon.

The Gabon captain is known for his superhero goal celebrations, donning a Spiderman and Batman mask after scoring.

Yannick Bolasie

From the Conference to the Congo, the Lyon-born and London-bred Bolasie has had a steady ascent into the football ranks via Plymouth, Bristol and even Malta. Finally settling in South London, DR Congo’s run to third place at African Cup of Nations (AFCON) in 2015 served as the catalyst for the Crystal Palace winger to add finishing to his cavernous box of tricks in the second half of the Premier League last season.

Riyad Mahrez

Mahrez is akin to Bolasie as he also served his apprenticeship in the lower confines of French football for Quimper and Le Havre. Born in the Parisian suburb of Sarcelles, the Algerian international who has a tricky and direct playing style a bit like Arjen Robben, has matured since his arrival on British shores 18 months ago. He played for the Fennec Foxes at World Cup 2014 and AFCON this year.

Jeffrey Schlupp

Jeffrey Schlupp is a Ghanaian professional footballer who plays for English club Crystal Palace and the Ghana national team as a left back or winger. He started his career as a striker.

Born on December 23, 1992 (age 24), Hamburg, Germany.

Nouha Dicko

Nouha Dicko is a professional footballer who plays as a striker for Championship club Hull City. Born in France, he represents Mali at international level.

Born May 14, 1992 (age 25), Saint Maurice,France

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desmond frimpong