Former Kenyan international Victor Wanyama has issued a stern call to European clubs, urging them to respect FIFA’s directives and release African players early enough to join their national teams ahead of the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations in Morocco (21 Dec 2025 – 18 Jan 2026).
Speaking on the long-running tension between clubs and national teams during AFCON windows, Wanyama insisted that African players deserve the same treatment as their European and South American counterparts.
“AFCON is a competition every African player wants to take part in. Clubs must respect that and allow them to join their countries early,” he stated firmly.
The former Tottenham and Montreal Impact midfielder highlighted that European clubs often delay or complicate the release of African players, citing domestic commitments, despite FIFA regulations clearly protecting international call-up windows.
“FIFA has rules. The players must be released. It should not be a fight every time AFCON comes around,” he said.
Wanyama stressed that AFCON is not a minor tournament, but one of the most competitive and culturally significant competitions in world football.
“People must understand, AFCON is huge. It is history, pride, identity. Africans grow up dreaming of this stage,” he added.
He argued that early release is crucial for proper preparation, team cohesion, and tactical organisation, especially considering the short turnaround before group matches begin in Morocco.
“To perform well, national teams need time. Training, chemistry, systems, these things don’t happen in two days,” Wanyama explained.
He urged clubs to stop viewing AFCON as a disruption, insisting instead that they should appreciate the importance of international football to African players.
“This is not a disturbance. It’s part of football. Players sacrifice for their countries, and their countries deserve respect,” he said.
Wanyama called for better understanding between clubs, federations, and players, stressing that the continuous battle over release dates disrespects African football.
His final message was clear and unapologetic:
“If Europe wants fair treatment for its players globally, it must also respect Africa. Release the players early — and let them represent their nations with pride.”
