Manchester United legend, Rio Ferdinand has given reasons why the Africa Cup of Nations, AFCON, tournament should be played as the same time with the UEFA European Championship, Euros, and Copa America.
Ferdinand believes that the departure of top African stars for the AFCON significantly impacts the competitive landscape of European leagues such as the Premier League and the Spanish LaLiga.
Stars like Mohamed Salah, Victor Osimhen, Ademola Lookman, Amad Diallo, and Bryan Mbeumo are currently participating in the ongoing 2025 AFCON in Morocco.
“African players are so prominent now. There are so many African players playing in the biggest stage, in the Premier League, other European leagues and Champions League,” Ferdinand said on his talk show, ‘Rio Ferdinand Presents.’
“When they leave for the AFCON, it dilutes the overall quality of the Premier League, LaLiga and and all the other European leagues.
“There should be a push for the AFCON to be put the same time as the Euros and Copa America, why are they [Euros and Copa America] playing when leagues around the world is off, but the African version isn’t.”