Former Nigeria international John Mikel Obi has lashed out at Jamie Carragher for dismissing the significance of the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) during a live television broadcast, asserting that Carragher has no right to belittle such a prestigious international tournament, especially since he never won an international trophy himself.
Speaking on his podcast, Mikel noted that the AFCON and the Champions League are the two most significant trophies he has won in his career.
“I have always said that the Champions League and the Africa Cup of Nations are the two biggest trophies I have won in my career. I have always rated the AFCON on the same level as the Champions League,” Mikel stated.
Carragher has faced criticism in recent days following his reasoned argument for why he believes the Africa Cup of Nations is not a ‘major tournament’.
On Sunday, the former Liverpool player suggested that Mohamed Salah is at a disadvantage in the annual debate for the Ballon d’Or due to his inability to win a significant international tournament, which, in Carragher’s view, includes the Euros, Copa America, or the World Cup—events for which Egypt are not heavily favoured.
Mikel, who won the AFCON in 2013 with the Super Eagles in South Africa, expressed that Carragher does not understand the effort required to succeed with a national team.
“You don’t know what it takes to win with your national team. You can’t disrespect such a wonderful tournament. People in Africa are passionate about the Africa Cup of Nations. Children grow up watching their idols, supporting their country, as the AFCON inspires them to become the next generation.
“The influx of African players into the Premier League, coming to Europe to play, is because they grew up watching the Africa Cup of Nations. Two billion people watch the AFCON,” Mikel added.
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