Former Chelsea and Nigeria midfielder, Mikel John Obi, has criticised former Liverpool defender Jamie Carragher for downplaying the significance of the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) as a major tournament.
Carragher’s remarks came during a Sky Sports discussion on Sunday, February 23, where he debated Mohamed Salah’s chances of winning the 2025 Ballon d’Or. He suggested that Salah’s lack of success in major international tournaments could hinder his prospects.
Former England internationals Micah Richards and Daniel Sturridge immediately challenged Carragher’s view, asserting that AFCON is a major competition. His comments sparked backlash on social media, with many criticising his stance.
Mikel Obi addressed the issue on The Obi One Podcast, calling Carragher’s comments “disrespectful.”
The former Super Eagles captain emphasised AFCON’s role in inspiring young African footballers, stating that many aspiring players look up to their idols competing in the tournament.
He stated, “It’s so disrespectful what he said. The Africa Cup of Nations is as big [as the Euros]. I’ve played in it and won it. It’s not in his f***ing place to discredit the AFCON. He sits there week in, week out teaching and coaching people on how to win the Premier League, and he never won it!”
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“Children, kids grow up watching their idols put in everything in supporting their country.”
He added, “The future generation influx of African players coming into the Premier League, come to Europe to play, it’s all because they grew up watching the African Cup of Nations”.
Mikel Obi won the AFCON with Nigeria in 2013 and enjoyed a successful club career with Chelsea, winning two Premier League titles, four FA Cups, the 2012 UEFA Champions League, and two UEFA Europa League titles.
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