Ghana midfielder, Christian Atsu, has called on Confederation of African Football, CAF, to shift the timing of the Africa Cup of Nations, AFCON, to end of the European calendar in order to allow players, especially those playing in Europe to benefit from the annual tournament.
Atsu claims that several African players lose their position at their club sides upon their return from the tournament.
The 25-year-old midfielder, who was picked as AFCON 2015 best player, told TV3, “I think this goes to Caf because they need to realise that when players are doing well [at their club side] and go to Afcon in January, when they come back, there is someone playing in their position and if that person is performing, it is difficult to win it back.
“Caf need to do something about the tournament in January. It needs to be moved to end of the season. For me when the season ends, a lot more people can watch the Afcon because there is no football. There will be more scouts, more fans and that would mean bigger exposure for African football,” he added
Meanwhile Atsu’s national teammate and deputy captain of the Black Stars, Andre Ayew shared a contrary view to the timing issue.
The West Ham United midfielder admits the challenges but insists that Africa is where the players belong and must be strong to face such difficulties.
He said, “I think it is a great tournament. We really love and no one will ever say no but it is true that the period is not easy for African players,” Ayew said.
“You leave your club, you can go back with injuries, lose your position, the club can bring other players, and players lose out deals. It is difficult but it is ours. It is not an easy corner but that is where we have to be strong as African players.”
The Black Stars will tackle Uganda, Mali and Egypt in Group D of the 2017 Afcon.
Comments