FIFA Ruling Empowers Liverpool, Man Utd with Major AFCON Advantage
FIFA has extended the deadline for clubs to release players for the upcoming Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON). This change will benefit teams like Liverpool and Manchester United, allowing them to retain their players for crucial matches. Originally, players were required to join their national teams by December 8. However, the new deadline is set for December 15.
Implications for Clubs
Liverpool’s manager, Arne Slot, welcomed the postponement. The extra time means Mohamed Salah will be available for more matches before departing for the tournament. The Egyptian captain’s participation is vital, especially following Liverpool’s mixed results in their recent European fixtures.
AFCON Overview
This year’s AFCON will take place in Morocco, starting with group matches on December 21. A total of 24 nations will compete, each guaranteed at least three matches in the group stage.
- Key Dates for AFCON 2025:
- Release Date: December 15
- Group Stage: December 21 – December 31
- Round of 16: January 3 – January 5
- Quarterfinals: January 9 – January 10
- Semifinals: January 14
- Third-Place Playoff: January 17
- Final: January 18
Liverpool’s Fixture Schedule
During this extended window, Liverpool will play several important matches:
| Date | Opponent |
|---|---|
| December 3 | Sunderland (H) |
| December 6 | Leeds (A) |
| December 9 | Inter (A) |
| December 13 | Brighton (H) |
| December 20 | Tottenham (A) |
| December 27 | Wolves (H) |
| January 1 | Leeds (H) |
| January 4 | Burnley (H) |
| January 8 | Arsenal (A) |
Manchester United’s Challenge
Manchester United will feel a greater impact from the AFCON schedule. The team will temporarily lose key players such as Bryan Mbeumo, Amad Diallo, and Noussair Mazraoui. They will now be available for games up until the new deadline. This includes a match against Wolves on December 8, and potentially against Bournemouth on December 15.
Manchester United’s Fixture List
| Date | Opponent |
|---|---|
| December 4 | West Ham (H) |
| December 8 | Wolves (A) |
| December 15 | Bournemouth (H) |
| December 21 | Aston Villa (A) |
| December 26 | Newcastle (H) |
Overall, the delay in player release for AFCON provides strategic advantages for clubs like Liverpool and Manchester United, as they prepare for pivotal fixtures in their respective leagues.
