Noah Abich criticises Jamie Carragher for ‘offensive and inappropriate’ remarks about AFCON

Former Kenyan international Noah Abich has taken aim at ex-Liverpool defender Jamie Carragher, criticising him for his belittling remarks regarding the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) tournament.

During his analysis of the Premier League match between Liverpool and Manchester City on Sunday, February 23rd, which Liverpool won 2-0 at the Etihad Stadium, Carragher sparked outrage by claiming that the renowned continental tournament wasn’t a significant event.

While discussing the performance of Egyptian striker Mohamed Salah—who netted the opening goal for Liverpool—Carragher questioned whether the player could be a contender for the esteemed Ballon d’Or, awarded annually to the world’s best player.

He suggested that the former AS Roma and Chelsea star would need to clinch the Champions League title to stand a chance for the Ballon d’Or, reasoning that the AFCON isn’t regarded as a “major tournament” by voters.

Carragher stated during the debate, as reported by BBC Sports: “The problem lies in the fact he’s with Egypt and he’s probably not competing in a major tournament, or perhaps doesn’t have a great chance of winning. It usually comes down to the Champions League or a major tournament. Typically, it’s the player who shines in that.”

In response, fellow commentators Micah Richards and Daniel Sturridge disagreed with his perspective. Richards, a former Manchester City player, argued: “Many viewers at home are thinking ‘They aren’t taking it seriously’. AFCON is a significant tournament,” while Sturridge, a Liverpool alum, remarked: “It’s the reality. Winning the Euros or Copa America is seen as significant—AFCON holds the same stature.”

Carragher Should Issue an Official Apology

Despite Carragher’s efforts to clarify his statements, which were likely well-intentioned, many in Africa took them negatively, particularly given his long history with Liverpool, where he played for over 17 years, served as vice-captain for a decade, and remains one of the club’s longest-serving players.

“If AFCON isn’t regarded as a major tournament, why do numerous scouts from Europe, including those from the Premier League where Carragher spent the entirety of his career, come to scout African talent when it’s on display?” questioned Abich.

“I would like to think he didn’t have malicious intent, and that his words were not carefully measured. It’s disrespectful to diminish the significance of the AFCON. Many players have reached Europe due to their performances in this tournament, and many more will follow.”

Abich, whose career included stints at Nzoia Sugar, Chemelil Sugar, Sony Sugar, Tusker, AFC Leopards, Kakamega Homeboyz, Sofapaka, Mathare United, Bandari, and Mt. Kenya United within the Kenyan Premier League, further remarked: “AFCON showcases the best of African teams; it’s far from just a local competition. We’ve seen top-quality football at the tournament, with stars like Nigeria’s Jay Jay Okocha emerging, just as Didier Drogba did.”

“To assert that AFCON is not a major tournament is to misunderstand what ‘major’ truly means. Every African nation aspires to participate in AFCON and even win it. I believe we should not give too much weight to Carragher’s comments; instead, we need to concentrate on enhancing the tournament.”

Abich concluded by stating: “Carragher’s comments were inappropriate. Although perhaps unintentional, they highlighted a pervasive bias that undermines the contributions and value of African players, perpetuating a narrative that diminishes their significance. Such an imperialistic viewpoint has no place in modern football.”

The former assistant coach of Nairobi City Stars also questioned why global media outlets turn their focus to cover the AFCON if it wasn’t deemed significant. “Global media consistently shifts attention to cover the tournament while it’s underway. If it were not a major event, would they be so keen to report on it?”

“In my view, AFCON holds the same prestige as the Euros and the Champions League.”