Liverpool legend Jamie Carragher has come under heavy criticism for his remarks about the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) following the Reds’ 2-0 victory over Manchester City.
The win at the Etihad Stadium, secured by goals from Mohamed Salah and Dominik Szoboszlai, marked a significant step for Liverpool in their quest for a first Premier League title in five years.
However, post-match discussions on Sky Sports shifted from the pitch to controversy after Carragher appeared to downplay AFCON’s significance when discussing Salah’s Ballon d’Or prospects.
While initially praising Salah’s contribution, Carragher raised eyebrows by suggesting that representing Egypt and participating in AFCON could hinder the forward’s chances of clinching football’s most prestigious individual award.
“I think the issue is that he’s with Egypt and probably won’t be involved in what’s considered a major tournament, or at least not one where he has a great chance of winning,” Carragher stated.
“For the Ballon d’Or, it usually comes down to the Champions League or a big international tournament. Players like Vinicius Jr. and Mbappé are in the thick of that Champions League race. Liverpool could be in that conversation, but right now, Real Madrid are leading the way.”
Carragher then turned to fellow pundit Micah Richards, asking if he believed Egypt could contend for the World Cup next year. Richards replied, “No, but the AFCON is big, isn’t it?”
However, Carragher abruptly dismissed the comment with a sarcastic “Oh my God,” which many viewers perceived as dismissive towards the African tournament.
Former Liverpool striker Daniel Sturridge was quick to defend AFCON, calling out Carragher’s remarks. “It’s a fact. If you win the Euros or the Copa America, it’s seen as massive. So why isn’t AFCON on the same level?” Sturridge questioned.
Football fans took to social media in droves to condemn Carragher’s comments, accusing him of disrespecting AFCON and undermining African football.
One user called the remarks “a textbook example of eurocentrism,” while another asked, “If Ronaldo or Messi win a continental title, it boosts their Ballon d’Or chances.
Why is it different for Salah if he wins AFCON?” Another pointed out that AFCON is the only continental international tournament played during the European league season, making Carragher’s dismissiveness all the more unjust.
“AFCON has produced some of the greatest footballers who’ve lit up European leagues. Dismissing it like this is a total insult,” one fan wrote.
Others labeled Carragher “a total disgrace” and urged him to apologize for undermining African football’s premier competition.
The backlash highlights the ongoing debate around the perception of African football within European circles.
AFCON, a tournament with deep history and immense significance for millions across the continent, has long battled stereotypes and dismissive attitudes from parts of the European football community.
While Carragher has yet to respond publicly to the criticism, the uproar serves as a stark reminder of the respect fans and players alike demand for African competitions and their global impact.
