Pundit Faces Backlash from Micah Richards, Daniel Sturridge, and Ahmed Elmohamady Over Comments on Mohamed Salah’s International Achievements
Jamie Carragher has found himself at the center of controversy after appearing to downplay the importance of the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) while discussing Mohamed Salah’s chances of winning the Ballon d’Or. The Liverpool legend’s comments, made during a post-match analysis on Sky Sports following Salah’s standout performance in Liverpool’s 2-0 win over Manchester City, have drawn criticism from fellow pundits and former players alike.
Carragher suggested that Salah’s lack of success in major international tournaments might be a factor in his lower rankings in previous Ballon d’Or races. “I think the problem is the fact he’s with Egypt, and he’s probably not playing in a major tournament as such or maybe got a great chance of winning,” Carragher said. “I think it’s either the Champions League or the major tournament [that influences who wins the Ballon d’Or].”
His remarks were quickly challenged by co-pundits Micah Richards and Daniel Sturridge, who were quick to defend the prestige of AFCON. Richards, a former Manchester City defender, interjected, “Just to say, AFCON is a major tournament because a lot of people are at home saying, ‘They aren’t taking it seriously’. AFCON is a big tournament, just so you know.”
Carragher responded by questioning whether Egypt had a realistic chance of winning the World Cup, to which Richards replied, “No, but AFCON is big, isn’t it? You remember when he and [Sadio] Mane were going for it and—” before being cut off by Carragher dismissively saying, “Oh God.”
Sturridge, a former Liverpool forward, stepped in to emphasize the significance of AFCON, stating, “It’s a fact. It’s a fact. It’s a fact. If you win the Euros or Copa America, it’s deemed to be big, so the AFCON is at the same level.”
The debate didn’t end in the studio. Former Aston Villa and Egypt player Ahmed Elmohamady took to X (formerly Twitter) to call out Carragher, writing, “Jamie Carragher doesn’t know what Major Tournaments is because he never won one. AFCON is A Major Tournament. So proud to have won it twice.”
Salah, who has been a standout performer for Liverpool this season, scoring 30 goals so far, has long been a key figure for Egypt. He led his country to the AFCON final in 2017 and 2021, though they fell short on both occasions. Despite this, AFCON remains one of the most prestigious tournaments in international football, and its significance is deeply felt across the African continent.
Carragher’s comments have reignited discussions about the respect afforded to African football on the global stage. While Salah’s Ballon d’Or prospects may hinge on his performances in the Champions League and other high-profile competitions, the debate serves as a reminder of the importance of acknowledging the achievements and challenges of players from all regions.
For now, the conversation continues, with fans and pundits alike weighing in on the value of AFCON and its role in shaping the legacies of players like Mohamed Salah.
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