The 2021 AFCON tournament is in doubt as the European Club Association writes to the Confederation of African Football informing them that they have no intention of releasing their African players for the tournament taking place in Cameroon in January 2022.
In a letter written to FIFA and CAF, the European Club Association (ECA) informs them that in view of the lack of adequate health measures taken by CAF relating to the prevention against COVID-19, that European clubs do not have the intention to release African players for the 2021 AFCON.
The ECA earlier implored FIFA and CAF to make sure necessary precautions are in place to protect players and club interests ahead of the tournament.
“The Board also expressed its deep concerns around player safety and welfare ahead of the African Cup Nations and upcoming international windows in early 2022, particularly in light of the worsening public health situation and the severe challenges faced during recent international windows,” they said.
“The Board agreed to engage urgently with FIFA to ensure all necessary precautions are in place to protect players and club interests as the health situation continues to deteriorate in an alarming manner.”
Following the latest letter sent to CAF, several reports are suggesting the tournament could be postponed as CAF, FIFA, and ECA continue to deliberate on the matter.
🔴 Selon nos informations, la CAN pourrait annoncer une annulation de l’édition 2022 au Cameroun. La réflexion est en tout cas engagée.
— RMC Sport (@RMCsport) December 15, 2021
French news outlet RMCSport believes the tournament could be canceled.
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