AFCON 2024: How the Africa Cup of Nations Will Shake Up Premier League Teams

Premier League clubs are entering one of the most demanding stretches of the season, but the upcoming Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) in Morocco, running from December 21 to January 18, promises to reshape squad dynamics. Teams could lose key African players for six league fixtures plus the FA Cup third round, forcing managers to adjust tactics and provide opportunities for other squad members.

Which Premier League stars will be missing for AFCON?

Mohamed Salah stands out as the marquee absentee, heading to Morocco with Egypt. Although Salah has not started any of Liverpool’s last five games, he played a majority of the match against Brighton and received a hero’s welcome at Anfield. Manchester City’s Omar Marmoush will join him, aiming to help Egypt end their decade-long trophy drought. Bryan Mbeumo will lead Cameroon’s charge, while Crystal Palace and Everton will miss Senegal duo Ismaila Sarr and Iliman Ndiaye. Bournemouth’s Antoine Semenyo, the Premier League’s highest-scoring African this season, will remain, as Ghana did not qualify.

Which teams will feel the biggest impact?

Sunderland, enjoying the best start for a promoted side in nearly 20 years, will be hardest hit. The Black Cats will be without wingers Chemsdine Talbi and Bertrand Traore, full-back Reinildo, Senegal midfielder Habib Diarra, and DR Congo pair Arthur Masuaku and Noah Sadiki. Their home unbeaten run could be tested, especially when hosting second-placed Manchester City on January 1. Manchester United will also lose Mbeumo, Amad Diallo, and defender Noussair Mazraoui, while Fulham will see Nigerian trio Alex Iwobi, Calvin Bassey, and Samuel Chukwueze depart.

Who will be least affected by AFCON?

Six Premier League teams will have no players leaving for the tournament: Arsenal, Aston Villa, Bournemouth, Chelsea, Leeds, and Newcastle. Players like Manchester City’s Marmoush and Rayan Ait-Nouri have made minimal appearances this season, minimizing disruption. Salah remains Liverpool’s sole absence, and Tottenham’s Yves Bissouma has yet to feature under Thomas Frank, keeping squad depth largely intact.

As AFCON overlaps with the festive Premier League schedule, managers must navigate absences, rotations, and tactical adjustments. While some teams face significant challenges, others could capitalize on squad depth to maintain momentum during this critical period of the season.

By Yockshard Enyendi