Rabat – FIFA has officially confirmed that the release of players for AFCON will take place on December 15.
This means African players at European clubs and elsewhere cannot join their national teams for AFCON until December 15, unless a consensus or negotiated agreement is reached between the player and the club.
FIFA made its official statement on Wednesday after “fruitful consultations” led by FIFA with key stakeholders.
“The Bureau of the Council has taken a decision in relation to the mandatory release of players for the CAF Africa Cup of Nations 2025, which will take place in Morocco from 21 December 2025 to 18 January 2026,” FIFA said.
The football organization said the release date will be reduced by seven days, urging clubs to discuss and negotiate to find appropriate individual solutions.
The confirmation comes amid frustration among coaches for African national teams ahead of the competition.
According to L’Equipe, European clubs have reportedly pressured FIFA to delay the release of players until December 15.
Reports said the situation coaches have been in contact with each other to express frustration over the situation.
Spanish sports-focused news outlet AS reported on Wednesday that Real Betis plans to keep its players, including Morocco’s Abde Ezzalzouli and Sofyan Amrabat, until its match against Rayo Vallecano on December 15.
FIFA said in its statement that in case there is a dispute over the release of players, the sports organization will mediate between both parties.
