By Kwame Bediako
Former England defender Jamie Carragher sparked a wave of outrage on Monday, February 24, 2025, after making a provocative comment regarding the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON). Carragher criticized the tournament, suggesting that its perceived lack of prestige indirectly hinders Mohamed Salah’s chances of winning individual accolades like the Ballon d’Or.
Carragher’s remarks were captured in a video shared on social media, where he stated, “I think the problem is the fact he’s with Egypt, and he’s probably not playing in the major tournament.”
This statement draws on the assumption that participation in a ‘less prestigious tournament’ with the AFCON in question in his comment, could negatively impact a player’s ability to win top individual awards. However, many fans and analysts have since pointed out that Carragher’s reasoning is flawed, as Salah’s performance for Egypt in the current campaign has been exceptional.
The Internet, naturally, did not take kindly to Carragher’s comments. Social media particularly X users flooded platforms with heated reactions, accusing Carragher of making an ignorant and dismissive statement. Some fans even humorously reminded him of his own achievements in the English Premier League, where he played for Liverpool FC with most his goals being own goals.
The incident has sparked a broader debate in the football community about the perception of certain tournaments and how it affects players’ reputations. Carragher’s comments, while intended as a critique of the AFCON’s status, have inadvertently brought attention to the World Cup and the European Championships, which are widely regarded as ‘the most prestigious competition’ in world football.
