Which PL teams will lose most players to AFCON - and what games will they miss?

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The 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) will have a significant impact on several Premier League teams due to the absence of key players representing their African nations. Clubs like Manchester United, Brighton, and Newcastle are set to lose multiple starters, which could affect their performance during crucial Premier League fixtures.

Manchester United face the biggest challenge as they will be without their entire right side—namely, midfielder Fred and right-back Aaron Wan-Bissaka—during AFCON. This absence compromises their tactical setup and defensive stability just as the calendar becomes congested. Additionally, Brighton must cope without several influential players, including Yves Bissouma, while Newcastle will lose talismanic forward Allan Saint-Maximin, who is vital to their attack.

Other clubs such as Liverpool and Sunderland will also miss key African internationals. Liverpool's squad depth will be tested with the absence of multiple players, though the scale is less severe compared to United. Sunderland, competing in a lower division but noted due to AFCON impact, will lose key men who contribute significantly to their squad.

The specific Premier League matches missed due to AFCON include several vital mid-season games where these teams could struggle without their African stars. This disruption comes at a critical point for clubs vying for European competition spots or battling relegation, heightening the significance of managing squad resources effectively during the tournament.

Overall, the 2025 AFCON is poised to cause notable disruption across the Premier League, with Manchester United likely to suffer the most severe setbacks. Other clubs will need to strategically adjust to these absences to sustain their league campaigns during the African international period.