By Neilley Claude EBESSA,
Journalist kick442.com – Cameroon
Morocco captain Romain Saïss has voiced his support for the Confederation of African Football’s decision to move the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) from a biennial tournament to a four-year cycle starting in 2032, describing the change as a positive step for players and African football as a whole.
Saïss was speaking ahead of Morocco’s last-16 clash against Tanzania at AFCON 2025, where the Atlas Lions are targeting a deep run in the competition.
While acknowledging the long-standing tradition of AFCON being staged every two years, the defender admitted the schedule has increasingly become a challenge for players competing at the highest level in Europe.
We’re used to playing every two years and now it’s changed, but we have to admit for some players it’s become a hindrance in their careers,” Saïss said.
The former Wolves centre-back pointed to the growing presence of African footballers in elite European competitions as a major factor behind the decision. AFCON has often taken place during the European club season, creating conflicts for both players and clubs during crucial periods.
There’s been a surge of African players playing at the highest level in key competitions in Europe,” he added. “So for me, it’s a positive development.”
CAF’s reform will see AFCON align more closely with other major international tournaments such as the UEFA European Championship and Copa América, both held every four years. The move is also expected to boost the tournament’s global profile while easing the physical and logistical demands placed on players.
Despite backing the change, Saïss was keen to stress the competition’s unique importance.
AFCON is special,” he said. “But it will be positive for everyone having it every four years.”
The 2027 edition will be the last Africa Cup of Nations played under the traditional two-year format, with the new quadrennial cycle set to begin in 2032, marking the start of a new era for African football.
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