Dembele wins Ligue 1 best player award again; Doue, Sage take honors

Paris Saint-Germain forward Ousmane Dembele claimed the Ligue 1 best player award for the second time in his career at the UNFP ceremony in Paris on Monday, May 10, 2026. He succeeded compatriot Kylian Mbappe, who had won the prize five consecutive times before moving to Real Madrid. Dembele thanked his team, saying individual trophies come thanks to the squad.

Also honored were Dembele’s teammate Desire Doue as best young player, Lens coach Pierre Sage for best coach after guiding the club to a direct challenge to PSG, Lens goalkeeper Robin Risser for best goalkeeper, and Bayern Munich winger Michael Olise as best French player abroad.

For Nigerian fans tracking African talent in European leagues, these awards highlight standout performers and signal shifting dynamics in French football. PSG’s continued dominance is challenged by Lens under Sage, while Olise’s recognition shows the impact of French-based Nigerian talent. The young player award for Doue underscores the league’s emerging stars.

With Dembele back-to-back and Lens pushing PSG, will the title race be more competitive next season, or will Paris retain its grip? Fans can watch these players as the new Ligue 1 season kicks off in August.

SOURCE: https://dailypost.ng/2026/05/12/ligue-1-award-full-list-of-all-winners/