- Samuel Chukwueze says AFCON deserves equal respect as the World Cup and Euros
- The tournament runs from December 21 to January 18 in Morocco
- European clubs have raised concerns over losing players mid-season
AFCON was initially expected to take place in the summer, but the revised December–January schedule has forced several European clubs to release key players at a critical point in their domestic campaigns.
Chukwueze, who plays for Fulham, is set to miss up to six club matches if Nigeria advance to the round of 16.
Still, the 25-year-old insists that national duty must come first.
Speaking to On Sports TV, Chukwueze dismissed claims that AFCON is less important than other major tournaments.
“Everybody wants to play in AFCON. It’s one of the best competitions in the world,” he said.
“You have to respect the AFCON the same way you respect the European Championship or the World Cup.”
He admitted that the timing may not be ideal, but stressed that this should never be used to downplay the tournament’s value.
Chukwueze explained that once a player is called up, there is little room for negotiation.
“We understand they scheduled it at the wrong time of the year, but when it’s important, if you get recalled, you have to go,” he said.
“You don’t have any choice. Your club can’t stop you.”
He also criticised negative comments aimed at AFCON, saying such views are unfair and disrespectful to African football.
On the pitch, Nigeria have begun their AFCON campaign on a positive note. Chukwueze featured as the Super Eagles edged Tanzania 2–1 in their opening Group C match.
They now turn their attention to a tougher test against Tunisia in their next fixture on Saturday.
