Arsenal and Ghana midfield maestro Thomas Teye Partey etched his name into the history books last Saturday night after being crowned Footballer of the Year for a record third time at the 2025 Ghana Football Awards in Accra.

The midfield enforcer, who first clinched the top prize in 2018 and 2019, completed his awards hat-trick in front of a star-studded audience — a fitting tribute to a stellar season that saw him play a key role in Arsenal’s journey to the UEFA Champions League semi-finals and their second-place finish in the English Premier League.

Partey also stood tall in the national colours, delivering commanding performances for the Black Stars in their crucial 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifying campaign.

He edged out strong competition from Athletic Bilbao’s Inaki Williams, whose impressive form in the spanish La Liga made him a serious contender for the honour.

But it was Partey’s leadership, consistency and impact across club and country that ultimately won him the votes — and he didn’t walk away with just one trophy.

Veteran sports journalist, Ken Bediako, is flanked by Herbert Mensah (left) and Harry Zakkour (right) to display the living Legends awards

The former Atlético Madrid star also scooped the Football for Good award, jointly with Brighton and Ghana wing-back, Tariq Lamptey, in recognition of their philanthropic work off the pitch.

Gracious in victory, Partey thanked fans and paid tribute to his fellow professionals.

“First of all, I want to thank the organisers — this is the third time and I really appreciate it,” he said after receiving the trophy from the Minister of Sports and Recreation, Kofi Iddie Adams.

“I also thank everyone who voted for me. I know it’s not easy; I’ve got so many teammates who deserve this too. I’m not the only one playing well. But I love it, and I’m grateful.”

Now in its seventh year, the Ghana Football Awards once again delivered a glittering celebration of the nation’s footballing excellence, honouring standout performers across 16 categories.

Hearts of Oak’s rising star Benjamin Asare was named Goalkeeper of the Year after breaking into the Black Stars setup, while former Black Queens  forward Doris Boaduwaa took home Female Footballer of the Year honours.

In-form Nations FC attacker Razak Simpson was the night’s big local winner, scooping Home-Based Footballer of the Year and Goal of the Year for his sensational strike against Hearts of Oak.

Black Stars legend and Sudan coach Kwasi Appiah was recognised as Men’s Coach of the Year, with Women’s Coach of the Year going to Abu Kassim.

In a moment that warmed hearts, legendary administrators Harry Zakkour and Herbert Mensah — former rival CEOs at Hearts and Kotoko — were jointly honoured as Living Legends, alongside celebrate veteran sports journalist, Ken Bediako.

The ceremony also recognised passionate fans, with a posthumous Special Fans Award given to Francis Yaw Frimpong, affectionately known as ‘Pooley’ of Asante Kotoko.

Delivering a passionate speech, Sports Minister Kofi Iddie Adams praised the organisers for consistently spotlighting excellence and urged the corporate sector to support football’s revival.

“Football is more than just a sport,” he said. “Government is committed to working with stakeholders to invest in infrastructure, funding and reforms to help clubs retain players longer — not just for quick transfers.”

He added: “I salute our club owners and managers. Your commitment is the backbone of our local game. I urge corporate Ghana to partner events like this to drive progress and passion in our football.”

Full List of Winners – Ghana Football Awards 2025

Footballer of the Year: Thomas Partey
Women’s Footballer of the Year: Doris Boaduwaa
Best African International Footballer: Achraf Hakimi
Men’s Coach of the Year: Kwasi Appiah
Women’s Coach of the Year: Abu Kassim
Goalkeeper of the year: Goalkeeper  Benjamin Asare
Home-Based Male Player of the Year: Razak Simpson
Home-Based Female Player of the Year: Mary Berkoe
Goal of the Year: Razak Simpson (vs Hearts of Oak)
Most Vibrant Club on Social Media: Medeama SC
Male Team of the Year: Bibiani Gold Stars
Female Team of the Year: Police Ladies
Best Club CEO: John Peter Amewu (Hohoe United)
Living Legend Awards: Harry Zakkour, Herbert Mensah, Ken Bediako
Football for Good Award: Thomas Partey & Tariq Lamptey
Odartey Lamptey Future Star Award: Jerry Afriyie
Special Fans Award: Late Francis Yaw Frimpong (Pooley, Asante Kotoko)