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Ahead of the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations in Ivory Coast, Ghana are doing everything possible to stop star midfielder Mohamed Kudus from playing in his club, West Ham's, final game before the tournament
As the football world gears up for the prestigious Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) 2023, clubs and national teams find themselves in a delicate dance over player availability. At the heart of this tussle is Mohammed Kudus, the Ghanaian international who has become a linchpin for West Ham United.
According to a report by The Standard UK, the situation surrounding Kudus's participation in West Ham's upcoming match against Brighton, just before he is expected to depart for the AFCON, is emblematic of the broader challenges that arise when international duties intersect with club commitments.
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This article delves into the three key reasons why Ghana has blocked Kudus from playing against Brighton, shedding light on the intricate balancing act between national team aspirations and club necessities.
Uncertainty over join-up dates
The primary challenge stems from the ambiguity surrounding the dates when players are required to join their national teams for the AFCON. This uncertainty, deemed "very unusual" by West Ham manager David Moyes, has left the club in the dark regarding Kudus's availability for their crucial match against Brighton.
Kudus integral role at West Ham
Mohammed Kudus's importance to West Ham cannot be overstated. His recent performances, including a pivotal role in a victory over Arsenal, highlight his value to the team.
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Moyes's eagerness to have Kudus available for the Brighton match before he departs for the AFCON underscores the player's significance to West Ham's aspirations.
Preparations for AFCON
The timing of the AFCON, set to take place in Ivory Coast from January 13 to February 11, 2024, complicates the situation further. National teams, including Ghana, require players to join pre-tournament training camps well in advance. This preparation is critical for team cohesion and strategy, creating a direct conflict with club fixtures scheduled around the same time.
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As West Ham and the Ghana national team navigate this challenging scenario, it highlights the broader theme of balancing individual player careers with the collective goals of teams at both the club and international levels.
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