The 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) is set to impact the Premier League significantly, with 40 players across 17 clubs expected to depart for the month-long tournament scheduled from December 21, 2025, to January 18, 2026, in Morocco.
With AFCON taking place at the height of the European football season, several clubs will be without key first-team stars for up to six or seven matches, including league games and domestic cup fixtures.
Top contenders for this year’s competition include Morocco, Egypt, South Africa, Senegal, Nigeria, and defending champions Ivory Coast.
Among Premier League clubs, Arsenal, Chelsea and Leeds United are the only teams unaffected. Meanwhile, Sunderland and Wolves face the biggest losses, each sending multiple players to the tournament.
