CAF Fails to Clarify Release Date for Europe-Based Players Ahead of AFCON

 


By Chimaobi J Nzoromobi 

The Confederation of African Football (CAF) on Wednesday came under pressure after failing to provide a clear answer on when participating teams will be guaranteed the release of their Europe-based players for next month’s Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON).

During a special AFCON briefing session attended by coaches and officials of all 24 qualified teams, former Super Eagles manager and current head coach of Benin Republic, Gernot Rohr, raised a key concern regarding player availability. Rohr asked CAF to specify when national teams could expect their foreign-based players to arrive in camp in order to begin final preparations for the continental showpiece.

However, CAF officials could not offer a definite response. Instead, they stated that the matter rests entirely with FIFA, which determines the official release window and enforces related regulations.

Rohr pressed further for clarity, but the briefing became more tense when a member of Senegal’s delegation joined in, insisting that CAF provide teams with a concrete answer on such an important logistical issue. Despite the repeated demands, CAF maintained its stance, offering no timeline or assurances.

The uncertainty over player release dates has become a growing concern for many national teams, particularly those heavily reliant on European-based stars. With AFCON approaching rapidly, coaches are eager to finalize training plans and ensure adequate preparation time.

As of now, teams will have to wait for FIFA’s official communication, while pressure mounts on CAF to strengthen coordination and avoid disruptions to AFCON preparations.

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