FIFA has confirmed that Nigerian and African internationals will join the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations later. Players will now be released from their clubs no earlier than December 15, easing European league concerns.
This change allows Super Eagles stars like Victor Osimhen, Samuel Chukwueze, Alex Iwobi, and Calvin Bassey more time with their clubs. Before the update, teams risked losing players as early as December 8. European sides had openly expressed frustration over early call-ups.
FIFA highlighted that the adjustment followed “fruitful consultations” with key stakeholders. CAF showed “solidarity” by agreeing to push back the release date. The organization encouraged clubs and national associations to hold “good faith bilateral discussions” to manage player availability.
Premier League and European teams now face shorter absences for African players during the busy festive period. Liverpool will release Mohamed Salah, while Manchester City loses Omar Marmoush and Rayan Ait-Nouri. Manchester United will be without Bryan Mbeumo, Amad Diallo, and Noussair Mazraoui.
Fulham will miss Iwobi, Bassey, and Chukwueze, while Brentford loses Frank Onyeka. Wolverhampton Wanderers will release Tolu Arokodare, and Atalanta will part with Ademola Lookman. Other withdrawals include Osimhen, Chidera Ejuke, Akor Adams, and Raphael Onyedika.
The revised release date ensures clubs complete key fixtures before the Africa Cup of Nations, running from December 21 to January 18. Heavyweights like Nigeria, Morocco, Egypt, Algeria, and Senegal are among tournament favourites.
This adjustment gives clubs more continuity while players prepare for one of the continent’s most competitive football events.
