The 2023 Africa Cup of Nations is causing a stir in the Premier League, with 31 players set to miss important games for their clubs. Originally planned for June and July, the tournament has been moved to January and February, disrupting the European football season.
This means several key players from different Premier League teams will be representing their African nations, leaving their clubs with challenges during the winter period. Let’s take a closer look at some of these players and how their absence might affect their teams.
Rayan Ait-Nouri (Algeria):
A recent addition to Algeria’s ranks, Ait-Nouri switched international allegiances from France in March 2023. Wolves might be concerned about losing one of their most consistent performers.
Mohamed Salah (Egypt):
Liverpool’s prolific forward, Salah, could miss key Premier League clashes against Bournemouth, Chelsea, and Arsenal if Egypt performs well in the tournament. A potential world-record fee transfer to Al-Ittihad adds an extra layer of intrigue.
Antoine Semenyo (Ghana):
Since joining Bournemouth from Bristol City, Semenyo has shown promise. While not yet taking the Premier League by storm, his absence could be felt by the Cherries during the tournament.
Jordan Ayew (Ghana):
An experienced forward, Ayew played a vital role in Ghana’s dramatic AFCON qualification. Despite facing criticism, Ayew remains a key player for the Black Stars.
Yasser Larouci (Algeria):
On a season-long loan from Troyes to Sheffield United, Larouci started the campaign with regular appearances but has seen reduced playing time lately. His inclusion in the Algeria squad comes as a surprise.
Bertrand Traore (Burkina Faso):
Despite facing challenges with injuries in recent campaigns, Traore made Burkina Faso’s squad. The Aston Villa forward’s unpredictable form may impact his nation’s chances.
Andre Onana (Cameroon):
Returning to the international scene after a falling out with Cameroon’s coach, Onana is set to miss winter games for Manchester United. Altay Bayindir is expected to deputize in his absence.
Mohammed Kudus (Ghana):
West Ham’s summer acquisition, Kudus, has attracted attention from top European clubs. His absence may challenge David Moyes’ plans in midfield.
Willy Boly (Ivory Coast):
A latecomer to the Ivory Coast national team, Boly is not their first-choice center-back. His absence may pose challenges for Nottingham Forest.
Yves Bissouma (Mali):
Bissouma has been benefiting from Tottenham’s managerial change and has been excellent. Spurs will feel his absence as he heads off to represent Mali.
Simon Adingra (Ivory Coast):
A product of Brighton’s youth system, Adingra impressed on loan at Union SG. Playing in front of home fans for Ivory Coast will mark a significant moment in his career.
Ibrahim Sangare (Ivory Coast):
A deadline-day arrival for Nottingham Forest from PSV Eindhoven, Sangare is a talented midfielder with over 30 caps for Ivory Coast.
Serge Aurier (Ivory Coast):
In good form for Ivory Coast at the start of the season, Aurier faces a potential absence due to a calf strain. His experience could be crucial for the historic tournament.
Boubacar Traore (Mali):
Earning a permanent move to Wolves after a successful loan spell, Traore may face challenges securing a spot in the Mali squad due to competition and injury.
Nayef Aguerd (Morocco):
West Ham’s defensive options were bolstered by the signing of Mavropanos, likely influenced by Aguerd’s potential AFCON-enforced absence.
Sofyan Amrabat (Morocco):
Despite mixed reviews at Old Trafford, Amrabat is expected to be a key player for Morocco, confident after their historic 2022 World Cup campaign.
Frank Onyeka (Nigeria):
A reliable midfielder for Brentford since their Premier League promotion, Onyeka’s performances are recognized by Nigeria, making him a key player for the Ivory Coast.
Alex Iwobi (Nigeria):
Switching allegiances from England to Nigeria, Iwobi has become a mainstay for the Super Eagles. His move to Fulham has proven to be a smart decision.
Calvin Bassey (Nigeria):
Joining Fulham after a stint at Ajax, Bassey aims to rediscover his form. His AFCON-enforced absence could impact Fulham’s defensive strategies.
Ola Aina (Nigeria):
Starting his career at Chelsea, Aina made the bold move to Torino before joining Nottingham Forest. His experience will be crucial for both club and country.
Nicolas Jackson (Senegal):
Chelsea’s summer recruit, Jackson, may experience a mix of highs and lows. His performances for the Blues will be closely watched.
Idrissa Gueye (Senegal):
Despite rumors of retirement from international duty, Gueye remains a key player for Senegal. Everton will miss his presence as they battle relegation.
Moussa Niakhate (Senegal):
Initially a France U-21 international, Niakhate declared for Senegal in 2023. His regular starts for Nottingham Forest make him an important asset.
Fode Ballo-Toure (Senegal):
Fulham’s Senegal international, Ballo-Toure, has made limited appearances since his summer move from AC Milan.
Cheikhou Kouyate (Senegal):
A key figure in Senegal’s 2021 AFCON triumph, Kouyate’s experience is vital for West Ham, Crystal Palace, and Nottingham Forest.
Pape Matar Sarr (Senegal):
Earning the trust of Tottenham’s manager Postecoglou, Sarr is likely to be a crucial part of Senegal’s midfield, accumulating international caps.
Anis Ben Slimane (Tunisia):
A summer recruit from Brondby, Slimane has dealt with a hamstring injury, sitting out of Tunisia’s September fixtures. His return is expected for the tournament.
These players, representing various nations, bring a mix of experience and potential to the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations, leaving a void in their Premier League clubs during their absence.
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