Okocha Fires Back at Carragher on Mohamed Salah Comment: “I Wouldn't Want My Son to Play Like Him”

Nigerian football icon Austin “Jay-Jay” Okocha has fiercely hit back at former Liverpool defender Jamie Carragher following comments that appeared to belittle both Mohamed Salah and the prestige of the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON).

The controversy began when Carragher, during Sky Sports analysis after Liverpool’s 2–0 win over Manchester City, suggested that Salah’s chances of winning the Ballon d’Or were limited because he represents Egypt. He implied that AFCON is not a major international tournament, saying:
“I think the problem is the fact he’s with Egypt, and he’s probably not playing in the major tournament as such or maybe got a great chance of winning.”

The remarks quickly circulated online, sparking outrage from African fans and football figures. Okocha, one of Africa’s most respected football legends, did not hold back in his response. In an interview trending on X (formerly Twitter), the former Super Eagles captain dismissed Carragher’s footballing authority and questioned his understanding of African football.

According to Okocha:
“There are some players that will say something; you just overlook it. If you look at their careers, if you look at the type of football that they played, you can understand. I mean, you wouldn’t want your son to be like Carragher. So, he can never appreciate African football or the talents that come from Africa.”