FIFA delays AFCON player release, giving clubs an extra week before players join national teams for Africa Cup of Nations

FIFA announced on Thursday that the release date for players to join their national teams for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations has been postponed, allowing most players an additional week of club action.

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Players were originally expected to report to national squads from December 8, but the new schedule permits them to participate in European league matches across the weekend of December 13 and 14.

Under FIFA regulations, modelled on the 2022 World Cup winter schedule, players must now report within seven days of their team’s opening AFCON game.

The delay means Liverpool will have Mohamed Salah available for their December 13 clash against Brighton, while Manchester United can field Bryan Mbuemo and Amad Diallo against Bournemouth on December 15.

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FIFA encouraged clubs facing scheduling challenges to consult with national teams “in good faith to find appropriate individual solutions.” The adjustment is expected to ease tensions between clubs and national sides while maintaining player welfare.