Africa Cup of Nations: CAF needs to align competition to European calendar - Laryea Kingston

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Former Ghana winger Laryea Laryea Kingstons says the Confederation of African Football should align its calendar to the European one so as not to cause a disruption during the Africa Cup of Nations.

There has been reports some clubs are not willing to let their players leave for the Afcon in the middle of the season.

“It’s going to be very difficult but at the end of the day if the Confederation of African Football can find a way in future, they can move the tournament to certain time, maybe the same time the Europeans are playing the European Cup.

“Then all leagues will be on hold so the players can hopefully honour their national teams.

“I don’t think it’s fair on the national teams and I don’t think it’s fair on the clubs too.

Ghana is set to open their group stage campaign against Cape Verde on Sunday, January 14, 2024.

The Black Stars will then play against record champions Egypt in their second group match against Egypt in four days before wrapping up the group face against Mozambique on January 22.

 

[The Sportiess]

Arguments for Aligning with the European Calendar:

• Reduced Disruption: Currently, AFCON clashes with the mid-season of European leagues, forcing clubs to release key players during a crucial period. Aligning with the European calendar would minimize this disruption and ensure players are available for both club and country commitments.
• Potential Boost in Competition: Holding AFCON during the European off-season could attract bigger names playing in top leagues, potentially elevating the tournament's overall quality and viewership.
• Improved Weather Conditions: Playing AFCON in the European summer months could avoid the extreme heat and humidity of the traditional June-July window, potentially leading to better player performance and spectator comfort.

Arguments against Aligning with the European Calendar:

• Loss of Uniqueness: Shifting AFCON away from its traditional slot might dilute its unique identity and cultural significance. The current timing coincides with favorable weather conditions in parts of Africa, allowing for open-air stadiums and vibrant fan experiences.
• Logistical Challenges: Coordinating a pan-African tournament during the European off-season, when players are on vacation or involved in pre-season preparations, could present logistical hurdles. Scheduling conflicts with other major sporting events might also arise.
• Potential Dominance by European-based Players: Aligning with the European calendar could further tilt the competitive balance towards players based in top European leagues, potentially marginalizing those playing in Africa or other regions.

Alternative Solutions:

• Expanding the AFCON window: Extending the competition window by a few weeks could ease fixture congestion and allow clubs more time to adjust to player absences.
• Introducing a winter transfer window for African players: This could give clubs a designated period to acquire or loan replacements during the AFCON period.
• Investing in infrastructure and player development in Africa: Strengthening African leagues and national teams could help close the gap with European football, reducing the perceived need to align with their calendar.

Ultimately, the decision of whether or not to align AFCON with the European calendar is complex, with compelling arguments on both sides. A thorough discussion involving all stakeholders, including players, clubs, national federations, and CAF, is necessary to find a solution that best serves the interests of African football.