Liverpool legend Jamie Carragher has stirred up a heated debate after downplaying the significance of the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) as a major tournament. The comments came following Liverpool’s impressive 2-0 victory over Manchester City in the Premier League on Sunday, where Egyptian superstar Mohamed Salah shone with a goal and an assist for Dominik Szoboszlai.
Speaking on *Sky Sports*, Carragher suggested that Salah’s nationality and Egypt’s lack of success on the global stage could hurt his chances of winning the Ballon d’Or this year. He argued, “I think the problem is the fact he’s with Egypt, and he’s probably not playing in a major tournament as such or maybe doesn’t have a great chance of winning. Normally, the player who excels in the Champions League or a major international tournament wins it – like Vini Jr or Kylian Mbappé right now.”
Carragher’s remarks didn’t sit well with former Manchester City defender Micah Richards, who fired back, “Just to say, AFCON *is* a major tournament. A lot of people at home might not take it seriously, but AFCON is a big tournament, just so you know.”
Carragher doubled down, questioning whether Egypt would ever be contenders for the World Cup, implying that only the biggest international competitions influence the Ballon d’Or race. But ex-England striker Daniel Sturridge quickly shut down the argument, stating, “If you win the Euros or Copa America, it’s deemed to be big, so AFCON is on the same level.”
The debate has since gone viral, with fans and pundits alike weighing in on whether AFCON deserves the same respect as other major international tournaments. One thing’s for sure: Carragher’s comments have ignited a fiery conversation in the football world!
Jamie Carragher Sparks Controversy: Dismisses AFCON as a ‘Major Tournament’ – Micah Richards and Daniel Sturridge Clap Back!
