FIFA Informs Clubs They Can Retain AFCON Players Until December 15

Media sources have reported that the International Football Federation (FIFA) has informed clubs of the possibility of retaining their players participating in the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations until December 15.

According to Sky Sports, this decision allows Sunderland to field a full squad against their traditional rivals Newcastle on December 14.

Among the players expected to remain with their clubs are Moroccan international Shamseddine Talbi, Congo national team midfielder Noah Sadiki, and Burkinabe forward Bertrand Traoré.

The Africa Cup of Nations finals are scheduled to take place in the Kingdom of Morocco between December 21, 2025, and January 18, 2026.