FIFA gives clubs an extra week before releasing AFCON stars
PositiveSports
- FIFA has granted clubs an additional week to retain their star players before they depart for the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON), allowing athletes like Mohamed Salah, Bryan Mbeumo, and Achraf Hakimi to play until December 15. This decision comes as top European clubs prepare to lose key players for up to five weeks during the tournament in Morocco, scheduled from December 21 to January 18.
- The extension is significant for clubs like Liverpool, Manchester United, and Paris Saint-Germain, as it provides them with crucial time to utilize their star players in important matches leading up to the tournament. This could impact their performance in domestic leagues and cup competitions.
- This development highlights the ongoing tension between club commitments and international duties, particularly for high-profile players. While clubs aim to maximize their squad strength, players face the challenge of balancing club loyalty with national pride, especially as some, like Salah, have expressed dissatisfaction with their roles in recent matches.
— via World Pulse Now AI Editorial System
