Carragher doubles down on AFCON claim after Salah’s Ballon d’Or snub
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After Liverpool's 2-0 win over Manchester City, Jamie Carragher sparked controversy by commenting on why Mohamed Salah has not been seriously in contention for the Ballon d'Or. Carragher suggested the issue lies in Salah's involvement with the Egyptian national team and the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON). He argued that Salah is not competing in a "major tournament" with Egypt that would boost his Ballon d'Or chances, implying that success in the Champions League or major international tournaments like the World Cup is more influential for such an award.
During a Sky Sports debate, Carragher said, "The fact he’s playing with Egypt and he’s not playing in the major tournaments as such, or maybe he hasn’t got a great chance of winning one…I think it’s either the Champions League or the major tournament - normally, the player who excels in that (wins the Ballon d’Or)." This comment drew pushback from fellow pundit Micah Richards, who defended AFCON as a major tournament. The exchange escalated with Carragher dismissing Egypt's chances of winning the World Cup and suggesting this diminishes the significance of AFCON in Ballon d'Or considerations.
This opinion provoked outrage among fans and commentators who consider AFCON a prestigious competition. Carragher later clarified he was "clumsy with [his] language," but maintained his stance that success in bigger global tournaments tends to carry more weight in Ballon d'Or voting.
Despite the controversy, Salah’s outstanding season—recording 41 Premier League goal contributions (25 goals, 16 assists)—positions him as a strong contender for the 2025 Ballon d'Or, especially if he helps Liverpool win major trophies such as a double or treble.
The discussion highlights the ongoing debate about the recognition of African football and its tournaments in global football awards and narratives, with many viewing Carragher’s comments as underestimating AFCON’s importance and Salah’s achievements on the international stage.
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