Top 10 Africans to win the Premier League

The Premier League has significantly benefitted from the vibrant talent and competitive spirit of African footballers.

Their contributions have not only improved the level of play but have also secured their place in history as champions. 

After highlighting the top appearance makers, leading goalscorers, key assist providers, goalkeepers with the most clean sheets and the most controversial transfers since 1992-93, Pulse Sports now celebrates the remarkable achievements of the 10 most decorated African players to have won the Premier League trophy, emphasising their significant impact and lasting legacy in England's top football division.

Nigerian defensive midfielder Mikel John Obi enjoyed a long and successful career with Chelsea, winning two Premier League titles in 2009-10 and 2014-15. 

Joining the club at a young age, Mikel developed into a consistent and reliable presence in the Blues’ midfield, providing crucial protection for the defence. 

While not known for his goal-scoring, his tactical discipline, excellent passing range and ability to break up opposition attacks were invaluable to Chelsea's championship-winning teams. 

Mikel was also a key part of their historic 2011-12 Champions League triumph.

Ghanaian midfielder Michael Essien was a powerhouse for Chelsea, playing a central role in their Premier League triumphs in 2005-06 and 2009-10. 

Known for his immense work rate, powerful shots and versatility across midfield and defence, Essien quickly became a fan favourite and a mainstay in Jose Mourinho's formidable Chelsea side. 

He earned the Chelsea Player of the Year award in 2006-07 and contributed significantly to their overall trophy haul, including the Champions League. 

Essien's dynamic presence epitomised the modern box-to-box midfielder.

Cameroonian defender Lauren was an unsung hero and a vital component of Arsenal's highly successful teams, winning two Premier League titles. 

Predominantly a right-back, Lauren was renowned for his defensive solidity, consistent performances and reliable tackling. 

He played a crucial role in Arsenal's 2001-02 title-winning campaign and was an uncontested first-choice right-back in the historic "Invincibles" season of 2003-04. 

Despite not having the fanfare of attacking players, Lauren’s Premier League contributions highlight the depth of African talent in the competition’s history.

Nigerian forward Nwankwo Kanu captivated Premier League audiences with his unique style and exceptional skill, winning two league titles with Arsenal. 

A key member of Arsene Wenger's "Invincibles" squad, Kanu contributed to Arsenal's championship wins in 2001-02 and the unbeaten 2003-04 season. 

Renowned for his elegant play, vision and ability to conjure magic, he remains a cult hero. 

Kanu was also a two-time African Footballer of the Year (1996, 1999), highlighting his individual brilliance and influence on the global stage both before and during his success in the Premier League.

Kolo Toure holds the unique distinction of being one of only eight players to win the Premier League with two different clubs, securing titles with Arsenal and Manchester City. 

A robust and reliable defender, Toure was an integral part of Arsenal's legendary "Invincibles" squad that went unbeaten in the 2003-04 season. 

The ex-defender later moved to Manchester City, where he added a second Premier League medal in the dramatic 2011-12 season, albeit after making only 14 appearances. 

Toure’s leadership and defensive solidity were crucial to both championship-winning teams, showcasing his enduring quality across different eras and club cultures.

Mohamed Salah has redefined attacking prowess in the Premier League, securing two titles with Liverpool. 

After a brief stint at Chelsea, Salah returned to England with Liverpool in 2017, becoming an immediate sensation. 

He was instrumental in Liverpool's 2019-20 title victory, ending the club's 30-year wait, and added a second title in the 2024-25 season. 

Salah holds the record for most goals scored by an African player in the Premier League, has won three Golden Boots, two PFA Players' Player of the Year awards and two African Footballer of the Year awards. 

His electrifying performances and consistent goal-scoring make him one of the league's all-time greats.

Although a bit-part player, South African midfielder Quinton Fortune achieved success with Manchester United, winning three Premier League titles during his tenure.

A versatile player capable of operating across midfield and defence, Fortune was a reliable member of Sir Alex Ferguson's squad, contributing to league triumphs in the 1999-2000, 2000-01 and 2002-03 seasons. 

While often a squad player, his consistent performances and dedication ensured he played a part in a highly successful era for the Red Devils. 

A midfield colossus, Yaya Toure was a pivotal figure in Manchester City's rise to Premier League dominance, securing three league titles. 

Joining from Barcelona in 2010, Toure’s blend of power, technical skill and goal-scoring ability from midfield transformed City, ending their long wait for major silverware. 

He was instrumental in their dramatic 2011-12 title win and continued to shine in 2013-14 (scoring 20 goals) and 2017-18. 

Toure’s individual brilliance was recognised with four consecutive African Footballer of the Year awards from 2011 to 2014, highlighting his unparalleled influence during his peak.

Arguably Chelsea's greatest-ever striker, Didier Drogba was a formidable force in the Premier League, securing four league titles with the London club. 

His powerful presence, clinical finishing and penchant for scoring in crucial matches defined Chelsea's dominant eras under Jose Mourinho. 

Drogba lifted the Premier League trophy in 2004-05, 2005-06, 2009-10 and 2014-15. 

He also famously won two Premier League Golden Boots and was twice named African Footballer of the Year (2006, 2009), solidifying his status as one of Africa's all-time footballing greats.

Drogba’s influence extended beyond goals, serving as a talismanic leader for Chelsea.

Riyad Mahrez stands as the most decorated African player in Premier League history, boasting an impressive five titles. 

His journey to the top began with Leicester City, where he was instrumental in their fairy-tale 2015-16 Premier League triumph, earning him the PFA Players' Player of the Year award. 

Following this historic achievement, Mahrez transitioned to Manchester City, adding four more league titles to his collection in 2018-19, 2020-21, 2021-22 and 2022-23. 

A gifted winger with exceptional dribbling skills and a keen eye for goal, Mahrez consistently delivered crucial performances for both championship-winning sides, cementing his legacy as a Premier League icon and a two-time Algerian Footballer of the Year.