Meaning
Youssouf is the form of Yūsuf used across French-speaking West Africa, including Senegal, Mali, Guinea and Côte d'Ivoire. Youssou is a popular shortened Wolof form.
A West African classic
Islam reached West Africa more than a thousand years ago, and Yūsuf travelled with it, picking up French spelling during the colonial era. Youssouf and Youssoufa are now common across the Sahel.
The most famous Youssou
Youssou N'Dour of Senegal is one of Africa's best-known musicians, a pioneer of mbalax whose voice has carried the name to stadiums worldwide.
On the pitch
Youssouf Fofana plays midfield for France, carrying the name into the world's biggest football matches.
Fun factYoussouf has two S's AND an extra U. It is the deluxe edition.