Get ready for a thrilling ride as we dive into the impact of the upcoming Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) on Premier League clubs! This prestigious tournament, set to take place in Morocco, promises to be a game-changer for some teams. But here's where it gets controversial: while AFCON showcases the best of African football, it also poses a significant challenge for European clubs, as it falls right in the middle of their busy season.
With the Premier League's global appeal, almost every team will feel the pinch, except for a lucky few. At GOAL, we've ranked the clubs based on how much their season could be affected by losing players to AFCON. Let's uncover the teams that might just struggle the most!
17. Aston Villa: A Minor Absence, Major Impact?
Evann Guessand, a promising forward from Nice, has yet to make a significant impact at Villa, with just one goal in 15 games. However, his absence could still be a concern for Unai Emery, as he relies on a deep pool of forwards to find the net.
16. Newcastle: A Striker's Tale
Yoane Wissa, a striker who forced a move to Newcastle, has been injured and hasn't played a single minute for the club. While his absence might not be felt immediately, Eddie Howe could certainly use another goal-scoring option, especially with Wissa's expected recovery for AFCON.
15. Bournemouth: A Thin Squad, A Big Challenge
Bournemouth's small squad will be tested with the departure of Amine Adli, a Bundesliga champion. However, the good news is that Antoine Semenyo, a key player, will remain as Ghana failed to qualify. Every player will need to step up to fill the void.
14. Manchester City: Depth Prevails
Manchester City, with their vast resources, will barely notice the loss of Omar Marmoush and Rayan Ait-Nouri, especially with Pep Guardiola's desire to trim the squad. Marmoush's knee injury and Ait-Nouri's ankle issues have limited their impact this season.
13. Tottenham: A Test of Depth
Pape Matar Sarr has impressed under Thomas Frank, often outshining more senior players. Yves Bissouma, on the other hand, is recovering from a knee injury. With Ghana's absence, Mohammed Kudus will stay, but Sarr's departure could be a test for Tottenham's depth.
12. Brighton: A Potential Loss, A Big Gain
Carlos Baleba, who almost joined Manchester United, has struggled this season. However, his potential remains high, and Brighton might find it challenging to replace him during AFCON.
11. Brentford: A Summer of Change, A Winter of Challenges
Brentford, despite a successful summer, will face a tough test without Dango Ouattara and Frank Onyeka, who have been key to their success. The loss of these players could impact their fight against relegation.
10. West Ham: Nuno's Defence Dilemma
West Ham, fighting to avoid relegation, will be without their first-choice full-backs, Aaron Wan-Bissaka and El Hadji Malick Diouf, for AFCON. This could leave Nuno Espirito Santo with limited options to strengthen his defence.
9. Liverpool: The Impact of the 'Egyptian King'
Liverpool's reliance on Mohamed Salah is undeniable. While he hasn't been at his best this season, his departure could still be a massive blow. The club might use this as an opportunity to test a new frontline, but replacing Salah's goal threat won't be easy.
8. Crystal Palace: A Small Squad, A Big Task
Crystal Palace, with their star-studded lineup, will miss Ismaila Sarr, who has been a key contributor. With a small squad and European commitments, the loss of Sarr could be a nightmare scenario for Oliver Glasner's team.
7. Nottingham Forest: A Surprise Package, A Relegation Battle
Nottingham Forest, last season's surprise package, finds itself in a relegation battle. The loss of up to four players, including key starters Ibrahim Sangare and Willy Boly, could be a significant setback, especially with their Europa League campaign to consider.
6. Burnley: A Tough Road Ahead
Burnley, fighting for survival, will be without Lyle Foster, Axel Tuanzebe, and Hannibal Mejbri for AFCON. While it's a challenge, the fact that these players occupy different positions might ease the burden on Scott Parker's squad.
5. Fulham: A Summer of Missteps, A Winter of Losses
Fulham, a mid-table side, now finds itself in a relegation battle due to transfer mishaps. Marco Silva's future is uncertain, and the loss of key players like Alex Iwobi and Samuel Chukwueze for AFCON won't help his cause.
4. Everton: A Loss of Quality Midfielders
David Moyes will miss the unique qualities of Iliman Ndiaye and Idrissa Gueye, two Senegalese midfielders. Ndiaye has been a key figure in Everton's attack, while Gueye's defensive prowess will be sorely missed.
3. Wolves: A Struggle for Survival
Wolves, once a Premier League powerhouse, now faces a serious threat of relegation. The loss of up to five players, including Marshall Munetsi, could be a significant blow, especially with a new manager, Rob Edwards, trying to turn things around.
2. Manchester United: Losing the Right Side
Ruben Amorim's Manchester United might have benefited from extra training time, but they now face a challenge. United could lose their entire right side, with Noussair Mazraoui, Amad Diallo, and Bryan Mbeumo likely to head to AFCON. Amorim will hope to keep Mbeumo in England until the tournament starts, avoiding another club-vs-country dispute.
1. Sunderland: A Test of Credentials
Sunderland's incredible transformation has been a highlight of the Premier League season. However, their true test will come during AFCON, as they could lose up to seven star players, including Chemsdine Talbi and Noah Sadiki. If Sunderland can maintain their form, they might just prove themselves as a serious contender for European football.
