Premier League teams face challenges as AFCON 2025 kicks off

The Premier League is preparing for a significant reshuffle as 32 stars from 14 top-tier clubs depart for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations in Morocco. From December 21 to January 18, these elite players will trade their club colors for national pride in the battle for Africa’s most prestigious trophy.

Sunderland faces the most daunting challenge, losing a league-high six players to the tournament in North Africa. Manager Régis Le Bris must navigate a congested festive period without key figures like Bertrand Traoré and Reinildo, a loss that could severely hamper their mid-season momentum.

Heavyweights Manchester City and Liverpool also face pivotal absences that could tilt the title race. City will be without the creative spark of Omar Marmoush and Rayan Aït-Nouri, while Liverpool loses the talismanic Mohamed Salah, who is widely expected to lead Egypt into the tournament's final stages.

In contrast, Arsenal and Aston Villa emerge as the big winners of the winter break, remaining entirely unaffected by international call-ups. Chelsea, Newcastle, and Tottenham also find themselves with relatively stable squads, providing a potential tactical advantage during a month that often defines the domestic season.