Global football governing body FIFA has confirmed that clubs are obliged to release their players for the upcoming Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) no later than Monday, 15 December 2025, with the organization prepared to intervene and mediate in any disputes that may arise over player availability.
The decision reinforces existing international regulations that require clubs to make players available for national team duty during official FIFA windows.
The 2025 Africa Cup of Nations, hosted by Morocco, is scheduled to run from 21 December 2025 to 18 January 2026.
Several high-profile players from top European leagues are expected to travel to Africa for the tournament, including Liverpool’s Mohamed Salah, Napoli’s Victor Osimhen, Bayer Leverkusen’s Edmond Tapsoba, and PSG’s Achraf Hakimi, among others.
Other notable names likely to feature include Bryan Mbeumo (Brentford), Amad Diallo (Manchester United), Iliman Ndiaye (Everton), Omar Marmoush (Eintracht Frankfurt), and Nicolas Jackson (Chelsea).
The early release deadline gives national teams additional preparation time ahead of the opening matches.
FIFA’s willingness to mediate reflects ongoing efforts to reduce tensions between clubs and national associations during major international tournaments.
The Africa Cup of Nations remains one of the most prestigious competitions in world football, with defending champions Ivory Coast among the favorites alongside strong contenders such as Morocco, Senegal, Egypt, and Nigeria.
