Mali coach Tom Saintfiet has launched a scathing attack on European clubs and FIFA over the decision to change the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) from a biennial to a quadrennial tournament. Saintfiet believes this move is a result of pressure from European clubs and FIFA, which doesn’t prioritize African football’s interests. “We listened to Europe to change our history,” Saintfiet said, expressing his disappointment and feeling of disrespect towards African football. He argues that the change benefits European clubs, allowing them to reduce the load on players, but harms African teams and fans.
Saintfiet isn’t alone in his criticism, as other African coaches and officials have also expressed mixed reactions to the decision. The change aims to reduce conflicts with European club competitions, but critics argue it undermines African football’s identity and revenue. CAF President Patrice Motsepe cited club-vs-country conflicts and revenue generation as reasons for the shift.
