Liverpool legend Jamie Carragher has sparked controversy after suggesting that Mohamed Salah’s nationality and Egypt’s lack of global success could hurt his chances of winning the Ballon d’Or.
Speaking on Sky Sports following Liverpool’s 2-0 victory over Manchester City, Carragher claimed that Salah does not play in a major tournament, implying that the Champions League or a major international competition like the World Cup has a greater influence on the Ballon d’Or race.
“I think the problem [is] the fact he’s with Egypt, and he’s probably not playing in the major tournament as such or maybe got a great chance of winning,” Carragher said. “I think it’s either the Champions League or the major tournament. Normally, the player who excels in that, like Vini Jr and (Kylian) Mbappe right now, Real Madrid looking really good going for the Champions League.”
However, former Manchester City defender Micah Richards quickly corrected him, stating, “Just to say, AFCON is a major tournament because a lot of people are at home saying ‘they aren’t taking it seriously’. AFCON is a big tournament, just so you know.”
Carragher responded by questioning Egypt’s chances of winning the World Cup, implying that only the most prestigious international tournaments truly impact the Ballon d’Or race. But ex-Liverpool striker Daniel Sturridge dismissed the argument, saying, “If you win the Euros or Copa America, it’s deemed to be big, so the AFCON is on the same level.”
Despite the debate, Salah remains a strong Ballon d’Or contender this year. The Egyptian forward has already scored 25 goals and provided 15 assists in the Premier League and is pushing Liverpool towards a potential treble, including the Champions League, Premier League, and Carabao Cup.
Historically, Ballon d’Or winners have shone in major club or international tournaments, with recent winners like Lionel Messi, Karim Benzema, and Luka Modric excelling on the biggest stages before claiming the award.
With AFCON set to return at the end of 2025 in Morocco, Salah will have another opportunity to lead Egypt to glory and strengthen his case for football’s most prestigious individual honor.