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The joy of representing their countries at the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations was not enough to stop these players from deciding to skip the tournament in Ivory Coast
In the lead-up to the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON), several prominent footballers made headlines by opting out of the tournament for various reasons related to their club commitments. Among these players were Hannibal Mejbri and M'Bala Nzola, each with unique circumstances leading to their decisions.
Hannibal Mejbri - Tunisia
The young Tunisian midfielder, who plays for Manchester United, chose to withdraw from the AFCON squad. The decision was influenced by his career situation at Manchester United, where he was at a crucial point with the possibility of a loan move to another club.
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Hannibal Mejbri's participation in the tournament would have conflicted with the need for immediate integration with a potential new team. Mejbri had been a part of Manchester United's team for the season, predominantly as a substitute, and was looking forward to gaining regular first-team experience. His decision reflects the complex balance young players must strike between national team duties and club commitments.
M'Bala Nzola - Angola
The Fiorentina striker and Angola national team player, Nzola, also decided against participating in the AFCON. He was a crucial player for Angola, having helped them qualify for the tournament. However, he declined the call-up to focus on his commitments with Fiorentina. His decision came as a surprise to many, especially given his role in the national team and his performance in the qualifying rounds.
Nzola was facing challenges in securing a regular spot in the Fiorentina team, with only one goal in 17 Serie A matches at that time. He prioritized staying in Italy to improve his club performance, a decision that may have implications for his future with the national team.
Mamadou Samassa - Mali
Malian goalkeeper Mamadou Samassa also made the decision to not participate in the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON). Samassa, who plays for Stade Lavallois in French Ligue 2, reached an agreement with his club that hampered his participation in the tournament.
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This agreement, made upon his arrival at the club in July, was a critical factor in his decision to stay with Stade Lavallois and not join the Mali national team for AFCON. Samassa's choice was based on club commitments and aligned with the terms of his agreement with Stade Lavallois
Lyle Foster - South Africa
Burnley striker, Lyle Foster, was not included in South Africa's squad for the 2024 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) due to mental health concerns. The South African Football Association (Safa) CEO, Lydia Monyepao, stated that they respected Foster's decision and understood the importance of addressing mental health issues.
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Foster had faced challenges with his mental health and had communicated his decision to focus on his recovery and his club career. This decision was supported by both Safa and Foster's club, Burnley. The club's medical team and manager Vincent Kompany also deemed Foster as not ready to participate in the AFCON due to the risks involved in his recent health situation. Foster himself had written to Safa expressing his reluctance to participate in the tournament because of his mental health concerns
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