DAILY RECORD 🔵 FIFA confirm AFCON decision that impacts Celtic and Rangers
The world football governing body have confirmed the deadline for clubs to release players for this month’s Africa Cup of Nations
FIFA has announced that the deadline for clubs to release players for this month’s Africa Cup of Nations will be December 15, rather than the previously scheduled December 8.
The postponement follows discussions between key stakeholders, giving Scottish Premiership clubs an additional week with their African players.
FIFA made a comparable decision prior to the 2022 World Cup. It means Celtic will be able to retain Kelechi Iheanacho and Sebastian Tounetki for the Premier Sports Cup final, 24 hours before the deadline.
And the Glasgow rivals also have Europa League games next week which fall after the previous deadline.
Rangers are due to face Hibs on the day of the deadline in a Premiership fixture pushed back 24 hours due to the Premier Sports Cup final. It remains to be seen if Danny Rohl will be able to call upon Mohamed Diomande and Nasser Djiga for that game.
FIFA stated that the extended deadline came after « fruitful consultations led by FIFA with key stakeholders and, thanks to the spirit of solidarity demonstrated by CAF to reduce the impact on various parties. »
The move enables clubs competing in the Champions League to keep players bound for AFCON for next week’s matches.
The tournament kicks off on 21 December when hosts Morocco face Comoros. It continues throughout the end of December and into the new year, with the final scheduled for 18 January.
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