Jamie Carragher gets criticised over comments on Africa Cup of Nations
Jamie Carragher, an English football analyst and former Liverpool defender, released a statement online regarding his views on the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON). The former Liverpool star casually stated that the event isn't a 'big tournament' and faces many challenges.
Carragher was talking about Mohamed Salah’s play after he scored and assisted in a 2-0 win against Manchester City on February 23, 2025. The discussion then turned to Salah’s chance for the Ballon d'Or. He is the top choice to win this prestigious award, even though he has never placed higher than fifth.
Salah was also not on the 30-man shortlist for 2024 and came in 11th place in 2023. ‘I think the issue is that he plays for Egypt, and he’s not in a big tournament or has a strong shot at winning’, Carragher said, explaining why Salah has not ranked higher.
Carragher suggested that winning big awards often depends on success in the Champions League or major tournaments. He noted players like Vinicius Jr and Kylian Mbappe who are currently big stars of the sport.
Micah Richards, an English football pundit and former professional quickly chimed in, pointing out that AFCON is indeed a major event, and many fans take it seriously. ‘A lot of people at home will say they’re taking that seriously. AFCON is a major tournament, just so you know’, Richards said.
Daniel Sturridge, a past teammate of Carragher’s at Liverpool, backed this view, stating that it is a clear fact. In response, Salah’s former Egypt teammate, Ahmed Elmohamady, shared his thoughts online.
Elmohamady pointed out that Carragher may not understand what counts as a major tournament since he has never won one himself. ‘AFCON is a Major Tournament. So proud to have won it twice’, Elmohamady said.
He triumphed in the continental event in 2008 and 2010, while Salah was not part of those wins. Salah faced defeat in the finals in 2017 and 2021. Carragher never reached a final with the England team, but he did secure the Champions League title with Liverpool in 2005.
The pundit has had disagreements with Salah in the past over his views and has also clashed with Rio Ferdinand. Ferdinand is a former Manchester United centre-back, who has joined the discussion as well.
On his YouTube channel, Ferdinand mentioned that Carragher's comment reflects a common view but is based on ignorance. He pointed out that players like Didier Drogba, Samuel Eto’o, Riyad Mahrez, and Salah believe they must win the AFCON.
He believes that while it may not receive the same funding as the Euros, that does not lessen its value. He argued that AFCON is a strong event that plays a key role in European football and deserves more respect than it gets.
