French international and Paris Saint-Germain (PSG) forward, Ousmane Dembélé, has been named the Global Muslim Celebrity of the Year 2024/2025 by Muslim News Nigeria, under its annual MNAwards, which recognises outstanding Muslim achievers both in Nigeria and across the globe.
The announcement was made by the Publisher of Muslim News Nigeria, Rasheed Abubakar, on Thursday, December 4, 2025.
The Global Muslim Celebrity Person of the Year category has consistently been dominated by Muslims in sports, unlike their counterparts in music, film, and modelling.
Recall that Senegalese-born footballer Sadio Mané, who currently plays for Al Nassr, clinched the award in 2022, while former Arsenal star Mesut Özil was the 2021 recipient – both honoured for proudly identifying with Islam and showcasing its beauty through their careers in the global entertainment industry.
Ahmed Musa, former Super Eagles captain and current General Manager of Kano Pillars FC, won the Nigerian category of the award not only for his football achievements but also for his consistent display of Islamic values and philanthropic efforts.
“Like Musa, Dembélé is known for his devotion to prayer, fasting during Ramadan, and maintaining a disciplined lifestyle, despite his high-profile career at Paris Saint-Germain. His 2024/2025 season was marked by tremendous success, including a UEFA Champions League triumph and a Ballon d’Or win.” – Rasheed Abubakar
Abubakar congratulated Dembélé saying he had a phenomenal season, winning multiple titles with PSG which culminated with the UEFA Champions League crown and recently clinching the Ballon d’Or. Beyond his athletic excellence, he was honoured for exemplifying Islamic values in both his personal and professional life.
“Dembélé is not only a top-class footballer but also a committed Muslim,” said Abubakar. “He observes his prayers, fasts during Ramadan despite his demanding football calendar, and maintains strong bonds with fellow Muslim teammates.”
The publisher added that Dembélé embodies modesty and discipline, steering clear of scandals and excessive media attention. “He is calm, humble, and carries himself with dignity – qualities cherished in Islam,” he noted.
While not outspoken, Dembélé’s charitable contributions to his countries of heritage, Mali and Mauritania reflect a deep sense of social responsibility. His quiet consistency, both in faith and conduct, has made him a role model for many young Muslims navigating fame while holding onto Islamic values.
Dembélé also earned global Muslim admiration for his firm support for the people of Palestine during the ongoing Israeli genocidal war on Gaza.
While many celebrities and athletes avoided taking sides, Dembélé was among the few Muslim footballers who publicly showed solidarity with Palestinians – liking pro-Palestinian posts, sharing symbolic content, and maintaining a clear stance without engaging in divisive or inflammatory rhetoric.
His subtle digital activism resonated deeply with many Muslim youths, especially as calls grew louder for influential figures to use their platforms for justice. Dembélé’s approach reflects a calm yet conscious personality who is committed to truth and compassion, key traits encouraged in Islam.
This courageous alignment with an oppressed people, despite potential backlash, further justified his selection as the Global Muslim Celebrity of the Year 2024/2025.
About Muslim News Nigeria:
Founded in 2018, Muslim News Nigeria is a leading faith-based media platform that reaches an estimated 120–135 million Muslims in Nigeria (approximately 56% of the population). Through consistent reporting, in-depth features, and the #MNAwards, the organisation amplifies Muslim voices and achievements — ensuring fair representation and global engagement. For more information, visit www.muslimnews.com.ng. or Wikipedia https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Muslim_News_Nigeria
Finalists for Nigerian Muslim Personalities of the Year (#MNAwards20242025)
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