Jamie Carragher, the former Liverpool defender, has fired back at Rio Ferdinand following criticism over his remarks about the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON). The dispute between these two football legends has sparked a heated debate in the sports community.
Carragher recently faced backlash for seemingly downplaying the importance of AFCON while discussing Mohamed Salah's prospects for winning the Ballon d'Or. His comments were made in light of Salah's impressive performance this season, including another goal and assist during Liverpool's 2-0 victory over Manchester City.
The Liverpool star is currently leading as a favorite for this year’s Ballon d’Or award. However, Carragher suggested on Sky Sports that Salah’s international allegiance might have been an obstacle to him winning previously.
Backlash from fellow pundits
Carragher's comments were quickly challenged by fellow pundits Micah Richards and Daniel Sturridge. He also received further backlash from former Aston Villa and Egypt star Ahmed Elmohamady, with Richard Keys branding his opinion as “unforgivable ignorance”.
Adding to the criticism was former Manchester United defender Rio Ferdinand who voiced his disapproval on an episode of his podcast.
Manchester United defender, Rio Ferdinand, said:
“I think [what he said] is representative of most of the people out there. But I don't think that's right. It's an ignorant thought process. If you go to Didier Drogba, Abedi Pele, Samuel Eto, Riyad Mahrez, Mo Salah or Sadio Mane, they'll tell you ‘we have to win this’ - there's demand in their country to win this. Yes, it doesn't get backed resources wise like the Euros but that doesn't mean you have to devalue it. It should be respected more than it is.”
“I understand what Jamie's saying but I don't agree with it. That's the majority's fault and it’s not right. I think the federations like FIFA need to make sure they implement language around AFCON so it equals the Euros and the Copa America. Jamie is right in what he is saying. If Salah won AFCON that would have no bearing on anyone when they vote for the Ballon d'Or, which is absolutely wrong.”
In response to Ferdinand’s critique posted on Instagram, Carragher retorted: “I didn’t say that you clown, stop playing to the gallery like you always do.” This sharp reply indicates a growing tension between these two football veterans.
Salah’s prospects for Ballon d’Or
Despite this controversy surrounding AFCON remarks, Mohamed Salah continues to shine in his career. With 30 goals and 21 assists from just 38 appearances across all competitions this season alone, he appears set as a strong contender for this year’s Ballon d’Or award.
Liverpool is also on track to win the Premier League, and with no international tournaments scheduled this summer, a Champions League triumph could further solidify Salah's chances of securing the most prestigious individual award in soccer.
The ongoing dispute between Carragher and Ferdinand underscores the significance of AFCON in international football. As sports fans and betting enthusiasts watch this unfold, all eyes remain on Mohamed Salah as he continues his quest for the Ballon d’Or.
