DISRESPECTING AFCON

Footballer-turned-pundit Jamie Carragher's recent comments following his former team Liverpool's victory over Manchester City have sparked a wave of criticism. He suggested Mohamed Salah’s Ballon d’Or chances were slim due to the fact that he plays for Egypt.

To many, his remarks belittled the African Cup of Nations (AFCON) and the value of African players representing their countries, implying that such international duty holds them back. Carragher met resistance from his colleagues Daniel Sturridge and Micah Richards, who defended the value of AFCON and the integrity of African players.

This type of disrespect towards African football is not new, with players often questioned about their commitment to national teams in a way no European player ever would be.

The conversation around this issue has been ongoing, with figures such as former England player Ian Wright calling out the racism and disrespect African players endure. In a video posted a few years back, he pointed out how disrespectful it is to undermine AFCON and African players. He questioned why the same respect given to European players isn’t extended to their African counterparts. As Wright eloquently stated, it’s time we give African football and its stars the respect they deserve.

Sources:Threesixtytv/Instagram

https://trtafrika.com/sports/uk-sports-pundit-under-fire-for-mo-salah-comments-18268617 

https://www.eurosport.com/football/ballon-d-or/2022/black-history-month-how-george-weah-s-historic-1995-ballon-d-or-win-put-black-and-african-players-on_sto9192984/story.shtml 

https://www.givemesport.com/jamie-carragher-pulled-up-micah-richards-daniel-sturridge-afcon/