Nigerian football legend Jay-Jay Okocha has strongly criticized former Liverpool defender Jamie Carragher over his remarks downplaying the significance of the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON). Okocha suggested that Carragher lacks appreciation for African football, dismissing his views as irrelevant.
“There are some players you just overlook when they speak. If you look at their career and the kind of football they played, you understand. I mean, you wouldn’t want your son to be like Carragher. He can never appreciate African football or the talents that come from Africa,” Okocha said in an interview circulating on X (formerly Twitter) on Friday.
Carragher’s Controversial Remarks Spark Backlash
Carragher’s comments came during a Sky Sports discussion on February 23, where he questioned whether Mohamed Salah’s lack of “major tournament” victories could hinder his chances of winning the 2025 Ballon d’Or. Despite Salah’s AFCON runner-up finishes in 2017 and 2021, Carragher downplayed the competition’s importance.
His remarks were quickly challenged by Micah Richards and Daniel Sturridge, who defended AFCON’s prestige. However, the comments ignited outrage on social media, with many accusing Carragher of disrespecting African football.
Mikel Obi: ‘It’s Not His Place to Discredit AFCON’
Former Super Eagles captain John Obi Mikel also condemned Carragher’s stance during an episode of his Obi One Podcast, calling his comments disrespectful.
“The Africa Cup of Nations is as big as the Euros. I’ve played in it and won it. It’s not in his f*ing place to discredit AFCON. He sits there week in, week out, teaching and coaching people on how to win the Premier League, and he never won it,” Mikel said.
The 2013 AFCON winner emphasized the tournament’s role in inspiring young African footballers, noting that many children grow up idolizing players who compete for their countries.
“The future generation of African players coming into the Premier League, coming to Europe, they’re inspired by AFCON. It means everything to us.”
AFCON’s Legacy and the Carragher Debate
Mikel, who enjoyed a decorated career at Chelsea, winning multiple domestic and international trophies, insisted that AFCON deserves the same level of respect as other major continental competitions. The backlash against Carragher underscores the growing demand for respect for African football on the global stage, as former players and fans alike continue to defend AFCON’s legacy and importance.
