English football pundit Jamie Carragher has sparked debate with his comments on Mohamed Salah’s chances of winning the Ballon d'Or.
According to Carragher, Salah’s nationality and his involvement in the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) might hinder his chances of clinching the prestigious award. This statement has ignited discussions about the recognition of African football on the global stage.
Salah has been in sensational form this season, contributing to 50 goals (30 goals and 20 assists) in 38 appearances for Liverpool. His performances have not only placed him among the best players in the world but have also made him a strong contender for the Ballon d'Or.
Jamie Carragher disrespectfully implies that the AFCON isn't a major football tournament.
— Africa Facts Zone (@AfricaFactsZone) February 24, 2025
He said Salah may not win the Ballon d'Or if he doesn't win a major tournament.
Micah Richards and Sturridge said the AFCON is a major tournament, then he scoffed. pic.twitter.com/Mbzodct1Xf
However, Carragher suggested that Salah’s association with Egypt and AFCON could be a disadvantage.
“The problem is the fact he is with Egypt, and he is probably not playing in the major tournament (AFCON) as such or maybe got a great chance of winning,” he remarked.
Carragher’s comment has been widely criticized, particularly within the African football community.
It reflects a common perception among Western football analysts, who often undermine the significance of AFCON compared to other international tournaments like the Uefa European Championship or Copa América.
This perception raises an important question: why is AFCON seen as less prestigious?
One explanation could be the historical underrepresentation of African players in major football awards.
Since its inception, George Weah remains the only African player to have won the prestigious Ballon d'Or. Weah secured the award in 1995 purely based on his club performances, as Liberia did not participate in any major international tournament that year.
Carragher attempted to clarify his stance on social media the following day, stating: "The point I was trying to make yesterday was that Mo Salah is at a disadvantage playing for Egypt in terms of him winning the Ballon d'Or.”
He further added: “Because I don’t think AFCON carries the weight of other tournaments. But if Mbappé had an average season at Real Madrid but won the World Cup/Euros, he would still have a great opportunity.”
“If Salah had an average season at LFC but won the AFCON and was MVP (Player of the Tournament), I don’t think he would win the Ballon d'Or.”
Salah/AFCON/Balon d’or!
— Jamie Carragher (@Carra23) February 24, 2025
The point I was trying to make yesterday was that MO Salah is at a disadvantage playing for Egypt in terms of him winning the Balon D’or.
If Salah had an average season at LFC but won the AFCON & was MVP I don’t think he would win the Balon d’or.
Carragher’s comments also reflect a broader issue of bias in global football. They suggest that achievements in African competitions are often undervalued, contributing to the ongoing struggle for African players to gain international recognition.
This perception is not just limited to pundits; it influences voting patterns for global awards like the Ballon d'Or, where performances in European and South American tournaments are often prioritized.
This raises concerns about fairness and equal representation in football, especially when African players like Salah consistently perform at the highest level. If he performs exceptionally well at AFCON while maintaining his club form, his achievements should be valued just as highly as those of his European or South American counterparts.