“He has the quality”- Idrissa Gueye says Everton could possess future Ballon d’Or winner

“He has the quality”- Idrissa Gueye says Everton could possess future Ballon d’Or winner

Idrissa Gueye believes Iliman Ndiaye has the potential to grow into one of the best players in world football.

The 25-year-old has been a standout performer in the Premier League this season, scoring four goals and entertaining fans with his flair and footwork on the right side of David Moyes’ attack. Viral clips of his skills have spread across social media, helping to shine a spotlight on his rising profile.

Gueye, who plays alongside Ndiaye for both Everton and Senegal, thinks his teammate has everything needed to reach the very highest level — even suggesting he could one day challenge for the Ballon d’Or, a prize once dominated by Cristiano Ronaldo and Lionel Messi. To date, George Weah remains Africa’s only Ballon d’Or winner.

Speaking to club media, Gueye explained:
“I push him every single game. I’m always talking to him. He’s a good kid, he listens, and I’m like his big brother. I always believed he would succeed at Everton, and honestly, I still don’t think he’s shown his best.

“I see his quality every day in training. He just needs to believe in himself, keep working hard and expect big things from himself.

I told him when he first arrived that he could be the next African Ballon d’Or winner — he has the talent, the technique, the skills… he has a mix of qualities I’ve never seen before.”

Ndiaye made a promising start during his debut season after joining from Marseille in 2024, but his attacking threat has truly flourished under Moyes, who took charge in January and granted him more freedom to take on defenders.

That was showcased brilliantly in his solo goal against Tottenham Hotspur — a crucial strike in Moyes’ first win since returning to Everton. Despite being played out of his preferred role on the right wing this season, Ndiaye has continued to shine.

His memorable goal at Sunderland highlighted a campaign filled with creativity and dangerous chances, including eye-catching moments against Manchester City.

Gueye praised not just his ability, but his character:
“He’s humble, a really good guy. He’s not shy, he loves to joke, and he gets on with everyone. He works incredibly hard — even videos from when he was younger show that he’s always wanted to improve.”

Moyes has also been full of admiration for Ndiaye’s work ethic and development, admitting to the ECHO that he initially wasn’t sure whether the forward would provide enough goals.

“When I arrived, I wasn’t sure if he’d add goals for us,” Moyes said. “But he has — and important ones. He’s given us assists too, and I actually think he’s getting better.”

While Ndiaye’s performances are generating attention, Moyes is relaxed about his long-term future at the club, citing his lengthy contract.

The bigger concern is preparing for the temporary loss of both Ndiaye and Gueye when Senegal compete in the Africa Cup of Nations in Morocco over December and January.

Moyes added:
“He’s improved a lot. He’s on a long contract, so there’s no worry there. We really like him — he’s low-maintenance, works hard, plays every game without complaining, goes away with Senegal and comes back ready to go again. He’s a brilliant lad.”