The Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) 2025 is set to have a significant impact on various Premier League clubs as players depart to represent their nations. The tournament kicks off on Sunday, with Morocco hosting Comoros. This year’s tournament features a total of 24 nations, and the final will take place on January 18, 2025.
Impacted Premier League Clubs Due to AFCON 2025
A total of 32 Premier League players are participating in AFCON, representing 14 different countries. Here’s a breakdown of which clubs are affected the most:
- Sunderland: Six players departed, the highest number from any Premier League club. This includes key defensive figures Noah Sadiki and Reinildo, both crucial in Sunderland’s five clean sheets this season.
- Manchester United: Three players—Bryan Mbeumo, Amad Diallo, and Noussair Mazraoui—are set to miss games.
- Fulham and Burnley: Both clubs are also losing three players. Fulham’s significant absentees are Alex Iwobi and Calvin Bassey.
- Clubs with two players missing: Teams like Manchester City, represented by Omar Marmoush and Rayan Ait-Nouri, fall into this category.
- Clubs with minimal impact: Arsenal is among six teams not losing any players to AFCON.
Minutes Played by Absentee Players
When analyzing the minutes played this season by the affected players, Sunderland faces the most severe consequences. Their six players have contributed a combined total of 4,412 minutes on the pitch. Other clubs are also feeling the heat:
- Fulham: Their players have logged just over 3,000 minutes.
- Manchester United: Similarly, over 3,000 minutes have been played by their departing players.
- Everton and West Ham: Players from these clubs have played over 1,000 minutes, showcasing their importance.
Attacking Threats on the Line
While Sunderland loses key defenders, other clubs must cope without vital attacking players. Both Manchester United and Fulham are losing 11 goal contributions due to their players’ absences. Everton’s eight losses primarily come from Ndiaye, while Liverpool’s Mohamed Salah adds seven to their tally, having recently impressed against Brighton.
Fixture Challenges During AFCON
As clubs navigate their schedules during AFCON, Aston Villa faces a tough run of matches, despite not losing any players. On the other hand, Liverpool has a more manageable schedule with just one player missing.
Tactical Adjustments Ahead of AFCON
With key players departing, clubs like Manchester United may need to adjust their strategies. Coach Ruben Amorim may have hinted at adjustments after changing formations during last week’s match against Bournemouth, possibly in response to the loss of key players, Amad and Mbeumo.
As the tournament progresses, Premier League clubs, including Sunderland, Manchester United, and Fulham, will have to adapt quickly. The impact of AFCON could shape their performance in upcoming fixtures. Meanwhile, Arsenal may benefit from having an uninterrupted squad. The weekend’s Premier League matches will reveal how these teams cope with the absences.
