Carragher Sparks Outrage After Dismissing AFCON As ‘Not A Major Tournament’

By Onoja Baba, Nigeria

Former Liverpool defender Jamie Carragher has come under intense criticism for his controversial remarks downplaying the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) as “not 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. I think it’s either the Champions League or the major tournament. Normally, the player who excels in that, like Vini Jr. and (Kylian) Mbappe right now, Real Madrid look really good going for the Champions League,” Carragher said.

His comments immediately sparked backlash, with Sky Sports pundit and former Manchester City defender Micah Richards firmly pushing back.

“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, doubled down on his argument, questioning whether Egypt would be contenders for the World Cup, implying that only the biggest global tournaments impact Ballon d’Or voting.

Former England and Liverpool striker Daniel Sturridge also weighed in, rejecting Carragher’s claim.

“It’s a fact,” Sturridge insisted. “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 discussion, Richards refused to let it slide, referencing past AFCON battles involving Salah and former Liverpool teammate Sadio Mané.

“You remember when he and Mané were going for it and—” Richards began before Carragher, seemingly exasperated, cut him off with an, “Oh God.”

The exchange has reignited long-standing debates over the global perception of African football, with many calling out the European football establishment’s tendency to downplay AFCON’s significance.

AFCON, which has produced legendary winners such as Cameroon, Nigeria, and Egypt, remains the continent’s premier international competition, drawing millions of viewers worldwide.

However, European pundits and clubs have frequently undervalued its impact, often prioritizing domestic leagues over the tournament.