CAF’s Latest Snub Sparks Controversy Around Mohamed Salah

The Confederation of African Football (CAF) has drawn criticism for excluding Mohamed Salah from its promotional image for AFCON 2025. Instead, Omar Marmoush, a fellow Egyptian international, was featured as Egypt’s representative among the 24 qualified teams.

Fans are perplexed by the choice because Salah is still regarded as one of Africa's most legendary athletes. He contributed 16 assists and 20 goals to Liverpool's 2024 season, which saw them take the lead in the Premier League. Additionally, Salah was essential to Egypt's World Cup qualifying campaign, which saw them win their group.

This comes on the heels of Salah’s omission from the shortlist for the African Player of the Year award, despite his decorated career and consistent performances.

CAF’s move to spotlight Marmoush, a younger talent, has fueled debates about whether the organization is neglecting Salah’s ongoing influence as a global ambassador for African football, prompting disappointment among fans and analysts alike.