Napoli pressures Zambo Anguissa to skip AFCON, sparking fresh club vs. country row

Napoli have reportedly launched an effort to persuade Cameroon international André-Frank Zambo Anguissa to skip the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) in Morocco, reigniting long-standing tensions between European clubs and African national teams.

According to Corriere dello Sport, the reigning Serie A champions are using ongoing contract extension talks to pressure the midfielder into delaying or cancelling his participation in the continental tournament, which runs from 21 December 2025 to 18 January 2026.

Zambo Anguissa’s current deal with Napoli expires in June 2027, but discussions over a renewal have reportedly become entangled with the AFCON issue.

The contract extension is progressing, but his departure for the Africa Cup of Nations is not guaranteed, the Italian daily wrote, suggesting the club is keen to keep the player through a key phase of the domestic campaign.

Napoli’s concerns are said to stem from the potential absence of one of their most influential figures, particularly with Kevin De Bruyne sidelined through injury.

The 29-year-old has been one of Napoli’s standout performers this season, contributing four goals and an assist in nine Serie A matches.

His absence during the AFCON would leave a notable gap in midfield at a time when the club is fighting to defend its league title and progress in Europe.

However, the reported pressure has not gone down well among Cameroonian supporters, who see Zambo Anguissa as a vital leader for the Indomitable Lions.

The Yaoundé-born vice-captain is widely regarded as the heartbeat of the national side, and few expect him to bow to club demands.

Cameroon will head into the 2025 AFCON seeking redemption after a disappointing campaign in 2023.

The episode echoes recent controversies involving other African stars.

Brentford’s Yoane Wissa recently hit back after former England striker Alan Shearer suggested he should “show loyalty” to Newcastle United by skipping the tournament — a remark that triggered widespread backlash from African fans and players alike.

While FIFA regulations prohibit clubs from blocking players’ national team call-ups, the practice of applying indirect pressure — through contract negotiations or hints about playing time — remains common.

The scheduling of the AFCON, which was moved from summer 2025 to winter to avoid a clash with the expanded FIFA Club World Cup, has only deepened the divide.

The situation encapsulates a broader, unresolved tension: African players often find themselves torn between professional obligations to their clubs and patriotic duty to their nations.

Yet for Zambo Anguissa, who has built his reputation on resilience and leadership, few believe there is any real doubt about where his loyalties lie.