45 Ethiopia Best Players of All Time

Andrew Kovacs

Ethiopia has a long and proud soccer history, with some of the greatest players in the world hailing from the country.

From the legendary Abebe Bikila, the first African to win an Olympic gold medal in marathon running, to Hailu Kebede, who led the Ethiopian national team to the African Nations Cup in 1962, the country has produced its fair share of world-class athletes.

One of Ethiopia’s greatest soccer players is Mengistu Worku. Through his incredible skill, hard work, and dedication, Mengistu Worku has become one of the most renowned and beloved soccer players in Ethiopia.

1. Abubeker Nassir

Abubeker Nassir Ahmed is a talented athlete who is making his mark in both the international and local sports scenes. He is a professional footballer from Ethiopia who currently plays as a forward for Mamelodi Sundowns in the Premier Soccer League.

This club is one of the most successful teams in South Africa, and Ahmed is an integral part of their success. He is also part of the Ethiopian national team and has represented them with distinction on the international stage.

His skill and determination have seen him become a leader within the team, and his presence is felt in every game.

Ahmed has the ability to turn games on their head with his impressive dribbling and shooting abilities, and his speed makes him a menacing opponent for any team he faces.

He is a crucial part of Mamelodi Sundowns’ future and his continued success is sure to be a great asset for the club.

2. Getaneh Kebede

Getaneh Kebede Gebeto is a professional footballer from Ethiopia. He plays as a striker for Fasil Kenema, a club in the Ethiopian Premier League. Gebeto is a highly talented and experienced player, having played for numerous clubs over the course of his career.

Gebeto started his footballing career in the Ethiopian Premier League, moving from club to club until he eventually found a home at Fasil Kenema in 2019. He has since become a key player for the club, making a significant impact in the league.

Gebeto’s performances have been impressive and have earned him a number of individual accolades, including the Ethiopian Footballer of the Year award in 2020.

He is now considered one of the most talented footballers in his country and is set to continue his success at Fasil Kenema for many years to come.

3. Saladin Said

Salah El Din Ahmed Said is a former professional footballer from Ethiopia with an impressive career in the sport. He played as a forward and was known for his energy, skill, and goal-scoring ability.

Salah’s performance in critical games made him a valuable asset to his teams in eastern Africa.

He earned the nicknames of Salhadin Said or Saladin Said due to his impressive contributions to the game. Salah was known for his quick reflexes, agility, and technical ability on the pitch.

He would often be seen leading the attack for his teams, using his speed and skill to create opportunities for his teammates. His ability to score important goals in key moments saw him become an integral part of many teams in eastern Africa.

He was also known to be a great team player, as he would often put his own interests aside in order to help his team succeed. Salah’s presence in the game of football in eastern Africa is undeniable.

He was a key figure in the region’s teams, and his energy, skill, and goal-scoring ability were instrumental in helping many sides to victory. His legacy will continue to live on in the hearts and minds of those who watched him play.

Salah El Din Ahmed Said is a name that will not soon be forgotten.

4. Adane Girma

Adane Girma is a former professional footballer from Ethiopia. He played as a striker and spent 10 years as a member of the Ethiopia national team, from 2004 to 2014. During that time, he had a total of 45 appearances and scored 9 goals, making him a valuable asset to the team.

He was a prolific scorer, with an impressive goals-per-game ratio of 0.2. Adane Girma had a successful career as a professional footballer. He was renowned for his skill and his ability to find the back of the net.

He was also known for his leadership qualities and his ability to inspire his teammates. He was a key contributor to the team’s success and was an important part of the Ethiopian national team. Adane Girma’s legacy in Ethiopian football will not soon be forgotten.

He was a talented player who made a lasting impact on the team and the nation. He will be remembered for his hard work, dedication and commitment to the sport.

His success as a footballer serves as an example for aspiring athletes and will continue to inspire generations to come.

5. Oumed Oukri

Oumed Oukri is an Ethiopian professional footballer who currently plays as a forward for the Oman Professional League club Suwaiq. He is also known by various other spellings, including Oumed Oukuri and Omod Okwury.

Oumed Oukri began his football career in Ethiopia, playing for a number of clubs including Dedebit FC and Saint George SA. During his time at Saint George, he was part of the squad that achieved the double of winning both the Ethiopian Premier League and Ethiopian Cup.

His impressive performances earned him a move to the Oman Professional League, joining Suwaiq in 2019. Since joining Suwaiq, Oumed Oukri has made a significant impact. He has scored vital goals for the club, helping them to secure points and move up the league table.

He has also been an integral part of the team, providing key assists and creating chances for his teammates. Oumed Oukri’s passion for the game and determination to succeed have been evident throughout his career, making him an important part of the Suwaiq squad.

Oumed Oukri is a highly talented footballer with a bright future ahead of him. With his impressive performances for Suwaiq, he has proven himself to be a valuable asset in the Oman Professional League.

His determination and passion will be key for the club in their pursuit of success in the future.

6. Gatoch Panom

Gatoch Panom Yiech is an Ethiopian professional footballer currently playing for both the Ethiopian Premier League club Saint George and the Ethiopia national team. Yiech is a key player in both organizations, playing as a defensive midfielder.

His defensive contributions have been invaluable for Saint George, helping to lead the team to several successes in the Ethiopian Premier League. Yiech is also a key player for the Ethiopia national team, providing the team with a strong defensive presence in the midfield.

His presence in the team has been vital for the team’s success in international competitions. With Yiech as the anchor of their defense, the Ethiopia national team has been able to achieve great success on the international stage.

7. Adugna Deyas

Adugna Gurmu Deyas is an Ethiopian professional footballer who plays as a goalkeeper. He is currently playing for Woldia SC, which competes in the Ethiopian Premier League. Adugna Gurmu was born in Ethiopia and began his career playing for local teams in his home country.

He then moved to the Ethiopian Premier League, where he has since been a regular member of the Woldia SC first team.

He is known for his agility and reflexes, making him a formidable presence in goal. Deyas has had a successful career as a goalkeeper, winning several awards, including the Ethiopian Premier League Goalkeeper of the Year Award in 2019.

He has also been selected for the Ethiopian national team on several occasions.

He was part of the squad that finished runners-up in the 2019 CECAFA Cup and also represented his country at the 2019 Africa Cup of Nations. Overall, Adugna Gurmu Deyas is a highly talented goalkeeper from Ethiopia.

He has achieved success at both the club and international level and is widely regarded as one of the best goalkeepers in the country. His impressive performances have earned him recognition both in Ethiopia and around the world.

8. Imaye Taga

Imaye Taga is an inspirational figure in the world of football. He was born in Ethiopia and moved to Israel at a young age. As a footballer, he played for Israel’s U21 national team and gained recognition for his skills and dedication.

After his playing career, Imaye continued to serve his community. He became a member of the city council of Netanya, Israel, where he works to improve the lives of people in his hometown. He is a role model for many, being a successful athlete and a dedicated public servant.

His story is a reminder of the potential of immigrants and refugees to make a positive difference in their adopted countries.

9. Amin Askar

Amin Soleiman Askar is a retired Ethiopian footballer who made his last appearance for Moss FK. Born in Ethiopia, Askar moved to Norway when he was only two years old and has since obtained citizenship of both Norway and Somalia.

During his playing career, Askar was a highly respected figure both on and off the pitch, giving back to his communities through various charitable efforts. Askar’s footballing career began in Norway when he signed for Moss FK as a teenager.

He quickly established himself as an important part of the team, playing a significant role in their recent success. Askar’s skill on the ball and his ability to read the game made him a key player in the team.

His understanding of the game and ability to influence those around him, even when the team was struggling, made him a leader on the pitch. Off the pitch, Askar was just as prominent.

He was a vocal supporter of his team and a passionate ambassador for the sport, giving back to his communities through charitable work and outreach.

He was a role model for many young footballers, showing them that football could be a route to success and a way to make a difference. Amin Soleiman Askar is a highly respected figure in the world of football.

His impressive playing career and charitable efforts have left a lasting impression on the sport and his communities.

10. Fuad Ibrahim

Abdusalam Abas Ibrahim is an Ethiopian former professional footballer who was known by two different names – Fuad Ibrahim and Ibee Ibrahim. He played as a forward, which is one of the most important attacking positions in soccer.

He was known for his high level of skill and ability to read the game, which allowed him to be successful in his career. Ibrahim was born in Ethiopia and started his professional career at the age of 19.

He joined the Ethiopian club Defence Force in 1990, where he stayed for two seasons. He then moved to the top-flight team St. George SA in 1992, where he enjoyed a successful spell for six years. During his time at St.

George SA, Ibrahim scored many goals and was pivotal in helping the team win the Ethiopian Cup in 1996. Throughout his career, Ibrahim also had spells at several other teams, including the Egyptian club Ismaily SC and the Lebanese side Al-Ansar.

He retired from professional football in 2005, after a long and successful career. In addition to his professional career, Ibrahim also represented Ethiopia at the international level.

He was part of the Ethiopian national team for the 1996 African Cup of Nations, where he scored two goals in the group stage.

He was also in the squad for the 1998 African Nations Cup qualifiers, where he helped the team reach the final. Abdusalam Abas Ibrahim was a highly successful professional footballer who was able to make a name for himself in the sport.

He was able to use his skill and intelligence to help his teams achieve success, both domestically and internationally. He is remembered as one of the greatest Ethiopian players of his era, and his legacy continues to inspire athletes today.

11. Fikru Teferra

Fikru Teferra Lemessa is an accomplished professional footballer from Ethiopia. He has a long and successful history as a footballer, having played for various clubs across the world.

He most recently played for Mohammedan SC as a forward. As a forward, Fikru was an important player for Mohammedan SC. He was known for his ability to score goals and his strength on the ball. He used his speed and agility to get past opponents and create scoring opportunities.

He was also an important leader for his team, organizing the offense and providing his teammates with guidance. Fikru was a big part of Mohammedan SC’s success.

He was one of the key players in their championship season in 2019 and was an integral part of the team’s run to the final in 2020.

He has earned numerous individual accolades and awards throughout his career, including being named the Ethiopian Premier League’s Player of the Year in 2019. Fikru Teferra Lemessa is a talented and experienced footballer who has made a name for himself in the game.

He has proven himself to be an important player for his team, and he has earned the respect of his peers and fans alike. He is a great example of a successful professional footballer and an inspiration to players from Ethiopia and around the world.

12. Degu Debebe

Degu Debebe Gebreyes is a professional footballer from Ethiopia. He currently plays as a center-back for the Ethiopian Premier League club Wolaitta Dicha and is the team’s captain.

Gebreyes is an experienced footballer, having played for a variety of clubs in Ethiopia as well as for clubs in Sudan and South Africa. He is considered one of the best defenders in the Ethiopian Premier League and is known for his leadership and discipline at the back.

Gebreyes has been a key member of the Wolaitta Dicha team since his arrival in 2016, helping them to a second-place finish in the 2017/18 season. He is a leader on and off the pitch and is an integral part of the team’s success.

13. Ramadan Yusef

Ramadan Yusef Mohammed is a talented professional footballer from Ethiopia. He currently plays at the left-back position for two teams: Saint George, a club in the Ethiopian Premier League, and the Ethiopia national team.

Mohammed started his career with the Ethiopian Premier League club Saint George. Since then, he has become an important asset to the team, making valuable contributions to both offensive and defensive play.

As a left-back, Mohammed is responsible for defending the left side of the field and supporting the attack with accurate passes and overlapping runs.

His defensive capabilities are also a major asset to the team, as his tackling and marking skills often help to keep the opposition from scoring. In addition, he is an important part of the Ethiopia national team, where his experience and skill set make him a valuable asset.

14. Abebaw Butako

Abebaw Butako is a talented and successful professional footballer from Ethiopia. He is currently playing for the Arba Minch Football Club, which competes in the Ethiopian Premier League.

He has been playing with the team since 2018 and has been making a significant impact, helping the team compete against some of the best sides in the league. Abebaw Butako has a strong background in football, having started his career in his home country.

He has had a successful career so far, playing in several different clubs in Ethiopia, as well as abroad.

He has great technical and tactical abilities, as well as an excellent understanding of the game. Butako has also been an important part of the Ethiopian national team, representing his country in various international competitions.

He is an important member of the team, providing his quality and experience to the squad. Abebaw Butako is an important figure in the Ethiopian football scene and an example of the talent and potential of the sport in the country.

He is an outstanding player and is sure to be an important part of the Arba Minch Football Club for many years to come.

15. Aschalew Tamene

Aschalew Tamene Seyoum is an Ethiopian professional footballer who currently plays for both Fasil Kenema in the Ethiopian Premier League and the Ethiopian national team. He plays in the position of center-back, which is a key defensive role in the team.

Seyoum has been a mainstay of the Ethiopian national team for a number of years and was part of the team that competed in the 2019 Africa Cup of Nations. His contributions to the team have been invaluable and he is considered to be one of the best players in the country.

At the club level, Seyoum has been with Fasil Kenema since 2015 and has been an influential figure in helping the team to achieve success in the Ethiopian Premier League. He has been a consistent performer for the club, and has won a number of awards for his efforts.

Seyoum is an important figure in Ethiopian football, and his career is one to be admired.

16. Suleman Hamid

Suleman Hamid Suleman is an Ethiopian professional footballer who is currently playing for both the Ethiopian Premier League club Saint George and the Ethiopia national team. Suleman plays as a right-back, which is a key defensive position in football.

As a right-back, his role is to help defend the team by positioning himself between the opposing team’s forwards and the goalkeeper. A right-back also has the responsibility to move forward and help support the attacks of his team with crosses and runs down the flank.

Suleman is making a positive impact on his team with his defensive contributions, as well as his ability to join up with the attack when called upon. He is an important part of both the Saint George team and the Ethiopia national team and is helping both teams achieve success.

17. Amanuel Gebremichael

Amanuel Gebremichael Aregwai is a professional footballer from Ethiopia. He currently plays as a forward for Fasil Kenema, a club in the Ethiopian Premier League, and the Ethiopia national team.

Amanuel has been playing football for many years and has developed a strong reputation for his skill and determination on the pitch. He is known for his ability to score goals with both his feet and head, and his determination to always give his best.

Amanuel is a strong leader in the team and is always looking to help his team reach their full potential. He is a great motivation to his teammates and is a great example of an athlete that puts his all into the game.

Amanuel is a great asset to both the Ethiopian Premier League and the Ethiopia national team, and he is sure to bring success to whichever team he is playing for.

18. Asrat Tunjo

Asrat Tunjo Toylo is a prominent figure in Ethiopian football. He is a professional footballer who plays as a defender for both the Ethiopian Premier League club Ethiopian Coffee and the Ethiopia national team.

Asrat has been a prominent and well-respected figure in Ethiopian football for a number of years, having worked tirelessly to help the development of the game in the country.

He has helped his club and national team to great success, and is a role model for aspiring footballers in Ethiopia. Asrat’s leadership and passion for the game have been integral to the success of both his club and the national team.

He is a respected figure among his peers and fans alike, and is dedicated to helping the development of football in Ethiopia.

19. Shemeles Bekele

Shimelis Bekele Godo is a professional footballer from Ethiopia who has achieved significant success in his career. He currently plays as an attacking midfielder for the Egyptian Premier League club ENPPI.

In addition, Shimelis serves as the captain of the Ethiopia national team. His dedication to the sport has been demonstrated by his appearances at the 2013 and 2021 Africa Cup of Nations on behalf of Ethiopia.

His impressive performances for both club and country have earned him immense respect and recognition among his peers and fans.

He has become a role model for many aspiring footballers in Ethiopia and beyond, inspiring them to pursue their dreams and work hard to reach their goals.

20. Seyoum Tesfaye

Seyoum Tesfaye is an Ethiopian professional footballer who has devoted his career to the sport. He currently plays as a defender for Ethiopian Premier League club Ethiopian Coffee, a team he has been with for many years.

Tesfaye has become a formidable presence on the pitch, using his skill and determination to make sure his team is successful. His presence in the Ethiopian Premier League has been nothing short of impressive, as he has been able to help his team to many victories.

He is a leader on the field, capable of organizing his team’s defense and leading them to victory. He is a key component of the team, and his presence in the league is a testament to his commitment to the sport.

21. Tesfaye Alebachew

Tesfaye Alebachew is an Ethiopian international footballer who has found success playing for Hadiya Hossana FC, a club based in Ethiopia.

He is a central midfielder, which means he is responsible for controlling the tempo of the team’s attack and defense, as well as linking midfield and attack. Alebachew was born in Addis Ababa, Ethiopia’s capital city.

As an international footballer, he has been able to represent his country on the world stage, earning numerous awards and accolades for his exceptional play.

Alebachew is the perfect example of a successful African footballer, showing that through hard work and dedication, anyone can achieve their dreams.

22. Yared Bayeh Belay

Yared Bayeh Belay is an Ethiopian footballer, currently playing for both Bahir Dar Kenema, a club in the Ethiopian Premier League, and the Ethiopia national team.

He plays in the position of centre-back, which is a defensive role in football. Belay has been a part of the Ethiopian football scene since 2017, having made his debut for the country’s national team in a friendly match against Liberia.

Since then, he has become an important part of the Ethiopian team, regularly playing in the African Cup of Nations qualifiers. At club level, Belay began his career with the Ethiopian Premier League side Mekelle 70 Enderta.

In 2020, he made the switch to Bahir Dar Kenema, where he has become a key player in their defense. Belay’s impressive performances for both club and country have seen him become one of the most recognizable names in Ethiopian football.

He is highly regarded for his defensive abilities, and he will be hoping to continue to impress in the upcoming season.

23. Mesud Mohammed Mussa

Mesud Mohammed Mussa is an Ethiopian professional footballer who is currently playing for both Adama City, a club in the Ethiopian Premier League, and the Ethiopia national team.

He is the captain of the Adama City team and is known for his excellent skill and technique in the midfield position. Throughout his career, he has been a leader on the field and has helped his teams achieve success.

As a result of his leadership and skill, he has been selected for the Ethiopia national team, where he is a key player and leader. Mesud Mohammed Mussa brings a wealth of experience and knowledge to the game, which helps his teams to be successful.

He is a great role model for younger Ethiopian footballers and is respected by all of his peers.

24. Yordanos Abay

Yordanos Abay is a former professional soccer player from Ethiopia. He was born in Ethiopia and began playing soccer at a young age. He became an international footballer in his native country, representing Ethiopia in the international arena.

He played for a number of clubs in Ethiopia, including the Ethiopian Premier League, and was even named the African Footballer of the Year in 2006. After his retirement from professional soccer in 2010, he remained active in the sport by coaching youth teams in Ethiopia.

He has also been involved in charitable work, helping to set up football academies for young Ethiopian players. Yordanos Abay is an inspiring figure in the world of soccer, having achieved success both on and off the field.

25. Mengistu Worku

Mengistu Worku was an Ethiopian footballer who was highly regarded as one of the most talented players in the country’s history. He was a part of a group of successful footballers which included Luciano Vassalo and Yidnekatchew Tessema.

Mengistu Worku had a long and successful career in the sport, representing his country in several international tournaments and competitions. He often played in a forward or attacking midfield role, and was renowned for his skill, speed, and agility on the pitch.

He was also known for his ability to create chances for his teammates and score goals himself. He was a major influence in his team’s successes and was respected by his peers.

Luciano Vassalo and Yidnekatchew Tessema were also influential players who helped shape the face of Ethiopian football. They were both known for their technical abilities, passing, and all-round game.

Tessema was also a prolific goalscorer, while Vassallo was a creative force in midfield. These three players are remembered as three of the best footballers in Ethiopian history and helped to bring the sport to the forefront of the nation’s culture.

26. Aynalem Hailu

Aynalem Hailu is a professional footballer from Ethiopia. He has been playing the sport since his childhood and is currently a part of the Dashen Beer team.

He is an experienced player who plays mainly as a midfielder and is known for his ability to control the ball and move it around the pitch. He is an influential presence in the team and his understanding of the game and technical ability make him a key part of the team.

His footballing journey has been a remarkable one as he has captained the Ethiopian national team in the past and has also played for a number of other clubs in his homeland.

He is a highly experienced player who is well known within the Ethiopian footballing community and has been a driving force behind Dashen Beer’s success in recent years.

27. Tesfaye Tafese

Tesfaye Tafese is a professional soccer player from Ethiopia. He currently plays for Al-Tilal SC, a professional football club in the Yemeni League, the top division of football in Yemen. Tafese has been playing for Al-Tilal SC since 2019 and has made a big impact on the team.

He has been an integral part of the team’s success, helping them to reach the top of the Yemeni League standings. Tafese’s ability to read the game and tactical awareness have been invaluable assets to the team.

He is a skilled and creative midfielder who is capable of providing the team with a much needed spark in the middle of the pitch. His talents have attracted attention from a number of other clubs, with many teams vying for his signature.

Tafese’s impact on Al-Tilal SC has been undeniable and his presence in the team is certainly one of the reasons why they are currently doing so well in the Yemeni League.

28. Anwar Siraj

Anwar Siraj is a retired Ethiopian footballer who had a successful career in the sport. He began his career in Ethiopia, and was a member of the Ethiopia national football team. Siraj was an important member of the team and was known for his skill and determination.

He was one of the most experienced players on the team and was often relied upon to provide leadership and guidance. Siraj’s career came to an end in 2009, when he decided to retire from football.

After his retirement, he remained involved in the sport, providing advice and support to younger players. He was also involved in charity and community work, helping to improve the lives of many in Ethiopia.

Anwar Siraj’s career was an impressive one, and he will be remembered by many as a great player and leader. He will also be remembered for his dedication to the sport and his commitment to helping his country.

He is an inspiration to many athletes in Ethiopia and beyond, and his legacy will live on for years to come.

29. Yidnekatchew Tessema

Yidnekatchew Tessema was an Ethiopian professional footballer who had a successful career as a striker. He was born in Ethiopia in 1962 and began his professional football career in 1978.

Tessema made a name for himself in the African football scene and was known for his skillful attacking play. He was a key member of the Ethiopian national team and was part of the team that won the 1982 African Cup of Nations.

He represented his country at the 1984 Summer Olympics in Los Angeles and helped lead Ethiopia to the quarterfinals. Throughout his career, Tessema played for several clubs in Ethiopia, as well as in countries such as Israel, Zimbabwe, and South Africa.

He had a great eye for goal and was known for his accurate shooting and ability to score from long range. He was also an excellent team player, often providing assists for his teammates.

He was a true leader on the pitch and had a great influence on his teammates. Tessema retired in 1990 after a long and successful career.

He is remembered as one of the most influential players in Ethiopian football history and will continue to be an inspiration to many for years to come.

30. Benjamin Kibebe

Benjamin Kibebe is a Swedish former professional footballer who played as a defender. He was well-known for his defensive prowess, which saw him feature for several clubs throughout his career, including IFK Norrköping and Örebro SK.

During his time in the game, he won one cap for the Sweden national team in 2001. This marked his single appearance for Sweden, and was a highlight of his career. Aside from his club career, Kibebe was also actively involved in a variety of coaching and youth development roles.

He was a youth coach at Örebro SK, as well as working for the Swedish Football Association and the Swedish Sports Confederation. He has also been involved in a number of charity and community development initiatives, working with disadvantaged young people in Sweden.

31. Lencho Skibba

Lencho Skibba is a professional football player from Ethiopia. He began his career in the United States with the USL First Division side Minnesota Thunder in 2005. After two years with the club, he made the move to the Greek Beta Ethniki, joining Kastoria F.C. in 2007.

Before his move to the United States, Skibba had a successful career in youth football in Ethiopia. In 2003, he was adopted by a German family, which allowed him to further pursue his football career.

After being adopted, he moved to the United States and began his professional career with Minnesota Thunder. Since his move to Kastoria, Skibba has continued to make a name for himself in the Greek football league.

He has been praised for his impressive performances and has become an important part of the team. Skibba has become an example for other young players, showing them that it is possible to achieve great success through hard work and dedication.

32. Teshome Getu

Teshome Getu is a professional football player who hails from Ethiopia. He is a midfielder, which means he is responsible for controlling the flow of the game and connecting defense and attack. Getu currently plays for EEPCO, which is a club based in Ethiopia.

Getu is an experienced player who has been playing football for many years. He is a key player for EEPCO, providing stability to their midfield and helping them to dominate in their matches. Getu is known for his creativity and ability to find his teammates with accurate passes.

He is also a great leader on the pitch, inspiring his teammates to perform at their best. Getu has a great future ahead of him and is sure to be an important player for EEPCO for many years to come.

33. Mulualem Regassa

Mulualem Regassa is a talented Ethiopian footballer, who currently plays for Saint-George SA, a premier Ethiopian club. He is a midfielder, a position where his technical skills, vision and leadership abilities are fully utilized.

Regassa has also represented his country, Ethiopia, in the national football team. He began his footballing career with Saint-George SA and has since risen through the ranks to become the team captain.

As captain, Regassa has been able to bring a sense of unity and purpose to the team and has had an instrumental role in helping them achieve success. He is highly respected by his teammates and viewed as a role model by many.

Mulualem Regassa is a great example of how hard work and dedication can lead to success.

34. Andualem Negusse

Andualem Nigussie is an Ethiopian footballer who currently plays for Kenbata Shinshico Kenema. He is an offensive midfielder by trade but currently plays as a striker.

He is a regular member of the Ethiopian national team and has made a name for himself in the footballing world. Andualem began his career at Muger Cement before joining Saint-George FC in 2022.

During his time with Muger Cement, he gained recognition for his offensive capabilities; his ability to create chances and score goals set him apart from other players.

After joining Saint-George FC, he proved his worth as a striker, making a number of impressive goalscoring contributions.

His performances earned him a place in the Ethiopian national team, where he has become a regular starter. Andualem has established himself as one of the top players in the Ethiopian football scene and is a key figure in the national team.

His offensive capabilities and ability to create chances make him a valuable asset to any team. He is sure to continue making a positive impact on the game for many years to come.

35. Zerihun Tadele

Zerihun Tadele Derese is a professional footballer from Ethiopia. He is an international goalkeeper who currently plays for Saint George FC in the Ethiopian Premier League.

Zerihun has been playing professionally for several years and has earned a great reputation for his skill and experience as a goalkeeper. His agility and reflexes have helped him become one of the most sought-after goalkeepers in the Ethiopian Premier League.

Zerihun is known for his ability to make quick decisions and his excellent communication skills. He is also very well respected by his teammates and coaches, due to his positive attitude and dedication to the team.

Zerihun is an important part of the Saint George FC team and has been instrumental in their success in the league. He is seen as a role model for other young players, and his influence in the team has been invaluable.

36. Shai Biruk

Shai Biruk is an Ethiopian-born Israeli footballer who moved to Israel at the age of six with his family. His move to Israel provided him with the opportunity to develop his footballing skills and talent.

While playing for the Israeli youth academy, Beitar Nes Tubruk, his footballing talent was noticed by scouts from the Dutch football club Ajax.

This led to his transfer to the Dutch football club in 2015. Shai Biruk is a great example of how talent can transcend borders and open up opportunities. Despite his young age, he was able to demonstrate his talent and potential to a world-renowned football club like Ajax.

His transfer to Ajax is a testament to his talent and ambition. Shai Biruk has since gone on to become an important part of the Ajax team. He has played in a number of matches for the club and contributed significantly to their success.

His hard work and dedication have earned him the admiration of his teammates and coaches. Shai Biruk is a great example of how hard work and dedication can lead to success. He is an inspiring figure for aspiring footballers all over the world.

His success story is proof that with determination and talent, any dream can be achieved.

37. Messay Dego

Messay Dego is an accomplished athlete and manager from Ethiopia. He was born in Ethiopia, but later made the move to Israel, where he pursued a career in football. Messay Dego played for the Israel U21 national team, one of the premier teams in the country.

He was also the manager of the team, leading them to success in many competitions. His skill and leadership on the pitch earned him respect and admiration from both his teammates and opponents alike. Messay Dego has made a lasting impression on the sport of football in Israel.

He was known for his hard work ethic and dedication to the game, which helped him become a respected player and manager. He was also known for his technical skills, which helped him become a valuable asset for the team.

Messay Dego’s leadership and influence helped the team become one of the top teams in the country. He also helped develop young players into stars, giving them the opportunity to play at the highest level. Messay Dego’s legacy continues to this day.

He is remembered for his contributions to the sport of football in Israel, and for his leadership and dedication to the game. He is an inspiration to all aspiring footballers and an example of the success that can be achieved through hard work and dedication.

38. Dawit Mebratu

Dawit Abraha Mebratu is an Ethiopian professional football midfielder. He was born in Ethiopia and has been playing football since a young age. He is currently playing for Saint-George SA, an Ethiopian Premier League team.

Mebratu is known for his excellent passing skills and his ability to read the game well. He is an integral part of the Saint-George SA squad and has been a key player for them for many years.

His strength and determination have been a major factor in helping his team achieve success in the league. He is also known for his leadership qualities on the field and is often seen motivating his teammates to perform better.

In addition to his footballing skills, Mebratu is also an avid supporter of his local community and has been involved in several charitable initiatives in Ethiopia.

39. Ziv Caveda

Ziv Caveda, an Ethiopian-born Israeli footballer, initially played for Hapoel Tel Aviv, but his lack of playing time led him to transfer to Tzafririm Holon. Upon joining Tzafririm Holon, Caveda was an instant starter and his morale was high.

However, during a league match between Tzafririm Holon and Maccabi Netanya, Caveda was taunted by Maccabi Netanya’s Itzik Zohar. This hurt Caveda’s morale and caused him to feel demotivated.

The taunting was a major setback for Caveda, and it dampened his enthusiasm for the game. Despite this, Caveda continued to persevere and work hard in order to succeed in his professional career.

He has since achieved great success in his football career and is a respected member of the Israeli football community.

40. Theodor Gebre Selassie

Theodor Gebre Selassie is a retired professional footballer from the Czech Republic. He played mainly as a right-back or wing-back.

During his playing career, he made 54 appearances for the Czech national football team and scored three goals for the team. Selassie made his international debut for the Czech Republic in 2008, and was an important part of the team’s successful Euro 2012 campaign.

He also helped the Czechs qualify for the 2014 World Cup in Brazil.

During his time on the national team, Selassie was known for his hard work and defensive abilities. In club football, Selassie had a long and successful career, playing for various clubs in the Czech Republic, Germany, and Slovakia.

He began his career in the Czech Republic in 2004, before moving to Germany in 2008. While in Germany, he played for clubs such as Werder Bremen and Hannover 96.

He returned to the Czech Republic in 2014, joining Slavia Prague, and he spent two seasons with the club. Theodor Gebre Selassie was a reliable and versatile player who had a great career.

He was a key member of the Czech national team, and he had a successful club career as well. He is remembered fondly by fans of Czech football and will be remembered as one of the country’s greatest players.

41. Rahamim Checkol

Rahamim Checkol is a professional soccer player from Ethiopia who currently plays for the Israeli team, Ironi Modi’in. His career began when he was called up to play for the Ethiopian Under-18 team.

From there, he was selected to represent Ethiopia at the Under-20 and Under-21 levels. He was also called up to play for the senior Ethiopian national team but never made an appearance.

In 2018, Checkol decided to switch his international allegiance to Israel and joined Ironi Modi’in shortly after. Since then, he has become a regular starter for the club, appearing in almost every match.

He has also been called up to the Israeli Under-21 team and has represented the country in several international tournaments. Checkol has developed a strong reputation as a reliable and consistent player.

He is known for his tenacity in defense and his ability to read the game quickly. He is also becoming a more confident attacker, frequently pushing forward and creating chances for his teammates.

As he continues to develop his game, Checkol looks set to become a key player for the Israeli national team in the coming years.

42. Baruch Dego

Baruch Dego is an inspiring figure in the world of football. He was born in Ethiopia but later moved to Israel, where he began his football career. Dego made a name for himself as a talented player and was eventually selected to play for the Israel national team.

He competed at a high level and was a major contributor to the team’s success. Dego’s success was especially noteworthy, as he was the first-ever Ethiopian-born player to represent Israel.

He paved the way for many more talented players to follow in his footsteps, and his legacy will live on forever.

43. Teklemariam Shanko

Teklemariam Shanko Balcha is an Ethiopian professional footballer who is currently a goalkeeper for Defense Force, a team in the Ethiopian Premier League. He also plays for the Ethiopia national team.

He stands out from other players due to his impressive ability to make acrobatic saves, and his exceptional reflexes. His leadership skills and commitment to the game have also been integral to the success of his teams.

His focus and dedication have earned him the respect of his teammates and opponents alike. He is a true professional athlete, and his skill and determination have been instrumental in leading his teams to victory.

He is an inspiration for aspiring footballers in Ethiopia, and his career is a testament to the power of hard work and dedication.

44. Fitsum Alemu

Fitsum Alemu Fekir is an accomplished professional soccer player from Ethiopia. He currently plays in the Ethiopian Premier League for the club Bahir Dar Kenema and is also part of the Ethiopian national team.

Fekir is an attacking midfielder, which is a position that involves both offensive and defensive duties.

As an attacking midfielder, Fekir is responsible for creating scoring opportunities for his team, by providing accurate passes to his teammates and getting into dangerous positions in the opponent’s half of the pitch.

The attacking midfielder must also be a good defender, as they are typically the first line of defense when their team loses possession of the ball. Fekir has excelled in his role as an attacking midfielder, helping his team to the top of the Ethiopian Premier League.

He is also a key member of the Ethiopia national team, bringing experience and skill to the team’s midfield. Fekir is certainly an important asset to both his club and national team, and he will continue to be a crucial player as they strive for success.

45. Mentesenot Adane

Mentesenot Adane is a talented Ethiopian footballer currently playing as a midfielder for Saint George S.C. Adane is a native of Ethiopia, and has been playing football since a young age.

He has shown great potential in the game, and eventually made his way to the professional ranks. In 2019, he signed with Saint George S.C., a professional football club based in Ethiopia.

As a midfielder, Adane is tasked with controlling the flow of the game and creating chances for his teammates. He is a gifted passer and is capable of carving through defenses with ease. He is also a tireless worker, always tracking back to help his team defend.

Adane is a valuable asset for Saint George S.C. and will be instrumental in helping them reach success.

Conclusion

The best soccer player in Ethiopia is a hotly contested topic. Many talented players have emerged over the years, and it is difficult to pick just one individual.

However, an argument can be made for Saladin Said, who has been a consistent force in the Ethiopian Premier League, scoring goals and playing with tremendous flair.

He has also been a key component of the Ethiopian national team, helping them to qualify for the African Cup of Nations in 2013 and 2015. Saladin Said is therefore certainly a leading contender for the title of best soccer player in Ethiopia..

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Andrew Kovacs

I am a Head Boys Soccer Coach at Amherst Regional Public Schools in Massachusetts. I have coached for the past five years and I am currently working on my master's degree in Exercise Science. I coach soccer because I love the game and I enjoy being around the kids. It is rewarding to see them develop their skills and grow as individuals. LinkedIn