Jamie Carragher Faces Backlash After Calling Africa Cup of Nations “Not a Major Tournament”.

When talking about Mohamed Salah’s chances of winning the Ballon d’Or this year, Liverpool legend Jamie Carragher said that the Africa Cup of Nations is not a major tournament, which has drawn criticism.

Salah’s nationality and Egypt’s international record may make it more difficult for him to win football’s top individual award, Carragher said on Sky Sports following Liverpool’s 2-0 victory over Manchester City on Sunday.

“I think the problem [is] the fact he’s with Egypt, and he’s probably not playing in the 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. Normally, the player who excels in that, like Vini Jr. and (Kylian) Mbappe right now, Real Madrid looking really good going for the Champions League.”

“I think it’s either the Champions League or the major tournament.

His remarks immediately sparked backlash with former Manchester City defender Micah Richards swiftly correcting him that AFCON is indeed a prestigious tournament.

“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.”

“If you win the Euros or Copa America, it’s deemed to be big, so the AFCON is on the same level,” Sturridge said in response to Carragher’s question about whether Egypt would be contenders for the World Cup, suggesting that only the biggest international competitions have an impact on the Ballon d’Or race.

Despite Carragher’s remarks, Salah is still a top contender for this year’s Ballon d’Or because of his outstanding performances for Liverpool this season.

With 25 goals and 15 assists so far this season, the Liverpool star has the potential to lead the Reds to a historic treble, which would include the Premier League, Champions League, and Carabao Cup.