With the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) set to take place in Morocco from December 21, 2025, to January 18, 2026, many Premier League stars are expected to feature prominently for their national teams. Here is a look at the key players likely to influence the tournament.
The 24-team AFCON tournament will showcase the continent’s top national teams like Egypt, Senegal, Nigeria, Morocco, and Algeria, all qualified after successful AFCON qualifiers.
Liverpool’s Mohamed Salah stands out as the most high-profile Premier League participant. As captain of Egypt, Salah’s remarkable season with 29 goals and 18 assists in 2024/25 highlights his importance to the Pharaohs, despite contractual uncertainties surrounding his club future[4][8].
Key African players elsewhere in the English league include Manchester United’s Cameroon goalkeeper André Onana, who despite a difficult season remains a top choice for his country. Algeria’s defender Rayan Aït-Nouri of Wolves impressed offensively with 4 goals and 7 assists, while Omar Marmoush (Manchester City), along with Nigerian internationals Ola Aina (Nottingham Forest) and Calvin Bassey (Fulham), are poised to have important roles.
The scheduling of AFCON during the European winter means Premier League clubs will miss these players for several critical fixtures, potentially impacting league title races and European qualifications.
In short, AFCON 2025 will be an important stage to watch African Premier League stars, combining established stars and emerging talents. The tournament in Morocco promises high-quality football and underscores the Premier League’s role as a vital platform for African footballers.
