Former Liverpool defender Jamie Carragher has ignited controversy after downplaying the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) as a major tournament while discussing Mohamed Salah’s chances of winning the Ballon d’Or.
Speaking on Sky Sports following Liverpool’s 2-0 victory over Manchester City on Sunday, Carragher suggested that Salah’s nationality and Egypt’s international record could hinder his chances of claiming 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 players who excel in that are like Vini Jr. and (Kylian) Mbappe right now. Real Madrid is looking really good going for the Champions League.”
His remarks were met with immediate pushback from Sky Sports pundit and former Manchester City defender Micah Richards.
“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 stance, questioning whether Egypt would be World Cup contenders, implying that only the most globally recognized tournaments impact Ballon d’Or voting.
Former England and Liverpool striker Daniel Sturridge also weighed in, disputing Carragher’s argument. “It’s a fact,” Sturridge said. “If you win the Euros or Copa América, it’s deemed to be big, so the AFCON is at the same level.”
As Carragher attempted to move past the conversation, Richards continued pressing the issue, reminding him of previous AFCON battles involving Mohamed Salah and Sadio Mané. “You remember when he and Mané were going for it and—” Richards began before Carragher interrupted with an exasperated, “Oh God.”
Carragher’s remarks have sparked wider criticism of European football’s tendency to downplay African competitions despite AFCON’s status as the continent’s premier international tournament. The debate over its global significance continues, particularly as African players increasingly dominate club football.
Salah, who has been in top form for Liverpool this season, played a crucial role in Sunday’s win, scoring and assisting in the victory at the Etihad. The Egyptian forward is now third on Liverpool’s all-time goalscoring chart and is widely considered a strong Ballon d’Or contender.
With the next AFCON set to take place either early next year or in late December 2025, the debate over its recognition in the footballing world is unlikely to fade anytime soon.
