Carragher’s remarks have reignited discussions about the perception of African football in Europe, with critics arguing that the continent’s premier international competition is often undervalued compared to the UEFA European Championship and Copa América.
London – Former Liverpool defender Jamie Carragher has sparked controversy after downplaying the significance of the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON), suggesting it is not a “major tournament” while discussing Mohamed Salah’s Ballon d’Or chances.
Speaking on Sky Sports following Liverpool’s 2-0 victory over Manchester City on Sunday, Carragher argued that Salah’s nationality and Egypt’s international record could hinder his prospects of winning football’s most prestigious individual award.
“I think the problem [is] the fact he’s with Egypt, and he’s probably not playing in the major tournament as such or maybe got a great chance of winning,” Carragher said. “I think it’s either the Champions League or the major tournament. Normally, the player who excels in that, like [Vinícius Júnior] and [Kylian] Mbappé right now, Real Madrid looking really good going for the Champions League.”
His comments immediately drew criticism, with fellow Sky Sports pundit and former Manchester City defender Micah Richards strongly opposing the statement.
“Just to say, AFCON is a major tournament because a lot of people are at home saying, ‘they aren’t taking it seriously.’ AFCON is a big tournament, just so you know,” Richards countered.
Carragher, however, stood by his remarks, questioning whether Egypt would be genuine contenders for the FIFA World Cup and implying that only the biggest global tournaments significantly impact Ballon d’Or voting.
Former England and Liverpool striker Daniel Sturridge also rejected Carragher’s stance.
“It’s a fact,” Sturridge insisted. “If you win the Euros or Copa América, it’s deemed to be big, so the AFCON is at the same level.”
As the debate continued, Richards reminded Carragher of past AFCON battles involving Salah and his former Liverpool teammate Sadio Mané.
“You remember when he and Mané were going for it and—” Richards began, before Carragher cut him off with an exasperated, “Oh God.”
Carragher’s remarks have reignited discussions about the perception of African football in Europe, with critics arguing that the continent’s premier international competition is often undervalued compared to the UEFA European Championship and Copa América.
AFCON remains Africa’s most prestigious tournament, drawing top talent from around the world. As the competition prepares to take center stage in early 2024 and again in late 2025, the debate over its global standing is unlikely to subside.
Meanwhile, Salah continues to make headlines for his performances at club level. The Egyptian forward played a crucial role in Liverpool’s win over Manchester City, scoring and assisting, and now ranks third on the club’s all-time goalscoring chart. His form has placed him firmly in the Ballon d’Or conversation, regardless of the ongoing debate over AFCON’s status.
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