"Now we know it's not a major tournament" - Former Manchester City and England player slams Africa Cup of Nations

Former Manchester City and England midfielder Joey Barton has delivered a scathing critique of the Africa Cup of Nations.

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Details: Joey Barton did not hold back in his criticism of the Africa Cup of Nations, openly questioning the tournament's status as a major international competition. According to him, recent events have only highlighted ongoing issues with organization and security.

"Now we know it's not a major tournament. Let's not be outraged again if some northern Europeans call it a farce—after all, we had a 20-minute delay," Barton said.

He also pointed out the extremely tense atmosphere at the stadiums:

"We were on the brink of a stadium war. There was a corrupt system where matches were tilted in favor of the host nation."

According to the former footballer, what was happening went far beyond the bounds of a normal football competition.

In conclusion, Barton mentioned chaotic scenes on the pitch:

"On top of that, the goalkeeper was being chased by Moroccan ball boys right on the pitch," Barton added.

For the record: Schalke have signed former Manchester City striker Edin Džeko.