Jamie Carragher has ignited debate in England after making controversial remarks about the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) while discussing Mohamed Salah’s chances of winning the Ballon d’Or.
The former Liverpool defender suggested that AFCON is not a “major tournament,” implying that it hinders Salah’s chances of securing football’s most prestigious individual award.
Carragher questions AFCON’s significance
Following Liverpool’s 2-0 victory over Manchester City, where Salah scored and provided an assist, Carragher shared his thoughts on Sky Sports, arguing that the Egyptian star’s international achievements do not carry enough weight in the Ballon d’Or race.
His problem is that he is Egyptian and therefore cannot win a major (international) competition, Carragher said, downplaying AFCON’s significance in global football.
His remarks immediately sparked backlash, with many questioning the continued underestimation of Africa’s premier football tournament.
Strong reactions from football figures
Carragher’s comments drew swift criticism from his fellow pundits.
Micah Richards was among the first to challenge him, insisting that AFCON is a major tournament that deserves the same recognition as its European and South American counterparts.
Former England international Daniel Sturridge also weighed in, drawing parallels between AFCON and other continental tournaments.
The AFCON has the same importance as the Euros or the Copa América, Sturridge said. Just as Lionel Messi’s Copa América win in 2021 helped him secure the Ballon d’Or, an AFCON title should carry similar weight in individual awards.
Renewed debate over AFCON’s recognition
Carragher’s remarks have reignited the long-standing discussion about AFCON’s standing in world football.
Jamie Carragher arguing that Salah being from Egypt 🇪🇬 therefore not able to win a major competition may stop him from winning ballon d’or. @MicahRichards correctly points out AFCON is a major competition. @Carra23 scoffs and says ‘seriously’.
Incredibly disappointing.— Leo Haider (@leohaider7) February 23, 2025
The competition, which has produced some of the sport’s greatest talents, remains the most prestigious tournament in African football.
However, it has often faced criticism and perceived underappreciation from certain sections of the global football community.
With Salah continuing to perform at the highest level for both club and country, the debate over AFCON’s importance in individual accolades is unlikely to fade anytime soon.
Many within the football world are now calling for greater recognition of the tournament’s significance and its role in shaping football’s elite players.
