Liverpool great Jamie Carragher has clarified the controversial comments made over the significance of the African Cup of Nations.
The former England international during a Skysports studio session involving Mohamed Salah’s chances of winning the Ballon D’or, downplayed the importance of the African showpiece event, emphasizing that it was not a major tournament.
“The point I was trying to make yesterday was that Mo Salah is at a disadvantage playing for Egypt when it comes to winning the Ballon d’Or,” he said after receiving backlash for his earlier comments.
“If Salah had an average season at Liverpool but won AFCON and was named MVP, I don’t think he would win the Ballon d’Or because AFCON doesn’t carry the same weight as other tournaments. But if Mbappe had an average season at Real Madrid and won the World Cup or Euros, he would still have a strong chance.”
Liverpool superstar Mohamed Salah has been one of the best players in the world this season with 30 goals and 21 assists in all competitions, as the Reds are poised to win the English League, as they are currently 11 points ahead of second-placed Arsenal.
“It’s not disrespectful to say the World Cup, Euros, or Copa América are bigger tournaments—it’s just my opinion based on what I watch. Calling AFCON ‘not a major competition’ was clumsy, but I think most people understood the point I was making”, Carragher added.
Shina Oludare is a distinguished sports journalist and managing editor, renowned for his comprehensive coverage of African football. His dedication to elevating African sports on the global stage has earned him widespread respect, along with numerous accolades for his contributions. A graduate of the LaLiga Business School in Madrid, Oludare’s passion for sports and his influential work in African football journalism have established him as a leading figure in the industry.
