Which Of The ‘Big Six’ Clubs Will Be Hit Hardest By AFCON? We Take A Look At Who Could Miss The Most Players
The African Cup of Nations takes place between January 9th and February 6th in Cameroon next year and Premier League clubs will be obligated to release their players for the competition.
AFCON had been moved to the summer in order to accommodate European seasons but the global health crisis forced the 2021 edition of the tournament to be delayed.
A switch back to January followed and it means the vast majority of English top-flight teams will miss some players for the best part of a month.
Press the next page as we look at which of the ‘Big Six’ clubs could be hit the hardest by having stars away in Africa.
Manchester City – One
With the exception of Spurs (who are not expected to have any players missing for AFCON), City will have the fewest absentees during the tournament.
Riyad Mahrez could be out of contention for a month if his country Algeria do go all the way to the final in Cameroon.
Manchester United – Two
While the Red Devils could have two stars away in Africa for the competition next year, it must be said that neither player is a surefire starter for manager Ole Gunnar Solskjaer.
Eric Bailly will be at the tournament with Ivory Coast, but he has made just one appearance in the Carabao Cup this campaign. Amad Diallo could join the defender in the squad for The Elephants but he hasn’t featured so far this season for United due to injury.
Chelsea – (Possibly) Two
AFCON could have a bigger impact on the European champions, with number one goalkeeper Edouard Mendy expected to be in Senegal’s squad. Kepa will likely come into the first team as a stand-in.
It remains to be seen whether Hakim Ziyech will be included in Morocco’s squad. The winger has had a falling out with national team coach Vahid Halilhodzic.
Liverpool – Three
The Reds’ title challenge could be put under strain with Mo Salah (Egypt), Sadio Mane (Senegal) and Naby Keita (Guinea) set to be absent for at least two Premier League matches.
There is, however, a winter break between January 23rd and February 7th, which will help ensure that the trio don’t miss anymore important fixtures.
Arsenal – Four
Thomas Partey (Ghana), Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang (Gabon), Nicolas Pepe (Ivory Coast) and Mohamed Elneny (Egypt) will not be available in January and at the start of February for the Gunners.
It will be a setback for manager Mikel Arteta who will need to utilise his squad to get through a North London derby against Tottenham, as well as a clash versus Burnley.
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