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2023 CAF Awards: Controversy surrounds African Player of the Year shortlist, Salah criticized
Morocco World News reports that the exclusion of Mohamed Salah from the final three contenders for the African Player of the Year award has sparked controversy. The Confederation of African Football (CAF) unveiled its shortlist, featuring Morocco’s Achraf Hakimi and Nigeria’s Victor Osimhen, but raised eyebrows by omitting Salah.
Moroccan football enthusiasts expressed discontent, highlighting the exceptional performances of Yassine Bounou for both Sevilla and the Moroccan national team throughout the past year. Bounou gained global recognition for his crucial role in Morocco’s historic World Cup journey in Qatar, where the team reached the semifinals.
Despite Bounou’s stellar record, including significant contributions to Sevilla’s success, CAF’s decision to exclude him from the shortlist has been met with criticism. Fans argue that Salah’s nomination seems undeserved, citing concerns about his recent performances with Liverpool and the Egyptian national team.
Critics on social media questioned the basis for Salah’s inclusion, with one commenter stating, “If we were to consider the best, Bounou should logically be at the top, and Salah applauding from his couch.”
In response to CAF’s decision, various comments expressed disappointment and skepticism about Salah’s contributions. Some pointed to Salah’s recent struggles with Liverpool, questioning his form and decision-making on the field.
Former Liverpool midfielder Ray Houghton criticized Salah’s recent performance during a game against Everton, describing it as “poor” and expressing concerns about his decision-making and pace.
Reports from various outlets, including TeamTalk, The Daily Mail, and Sky News, have previously scrutinized Salah’s performances, noting a dip in productivity and suggesting possible links between Liverpool’s struggles and Salah’s form.
As the controversy continues, football enthusiasts and analysts debate whether CAF’s decision accurately reflects the standout performers in African football during the specified periods.
