FIFA has announced December 15 as the official release date for players joining their national teams for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON), providing relief to European clubs concerned about losing key players early in the season.
The revised date allows clubs an extra week with their African internationals before they report for pre-tournament preparations. The decision follows consultations between FIFA, the Confederation of African Football (CAF), and football stakeholders, aimed at balancing club responsibilities with national team commitments.
The adjustment is expected to benefit European clubs, especially in leagues where December fixtures are critical for title races and continental qualification.
Super Eagles stars including Victor Osimhen, Ademola Lookman, Samuel Chukwueze, Alex Iwobi, and Calvin Bassey will now be available for club matches deeper into the festive schedule before heading to Morocco for the tournament.
Despite the new timeline, clubs such as Liverpool, Manchester City, and Manchester United will still have to release their African players for AFCON once the tournament begins.
The 2025 AFCON, set to be held in Morocco, promises to feature the continent’s strongest national teams in one of Africa’s most prestigious football competitions.
