"What's the matter with AFCON and Asian Cup?" - Ange Postecoglou

Tottenham Hotspur manager Ange Postecoglou has emphatically stated that he would never shy away from signing talented players due to the possibility of losing them to mid-season international tournaments. In response to the looming absences of key players Son Heung-min, Pape Matar Sarr, and Yves Bissouma due to the Asian Cup and Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON), Postecoglou expressed his admiration for international football and the significance these tournaments hold for the participating nations.

 

Postecoglou acknowledged the inconvenience of losing players during the season but emphasized the importance of recognizing the deep connection these players have with representing their countries. He believes that the benefits of international exposure outweigh the temporary absence, contributing to the professional and personal development of the players.

 

The manager highlighted the example of Son Heung-min, a generational talent from Asia who has graced Tottenham’s squad. Despite the potential five-week absence every four years, Postecoglou considers it a small price to pay, given Son’s immense contributions to the club.

 

Drawing from his experience as manager of the Australian national team, Postecoglou emphasized the cultural and emotional significance of international tournaments for the players involved. He believes that these tournaments are not mere gatherings but hold deep historical and cultural importance for the participating nations.

 

Postecoglou also addressed the contrasting situations with Manchester United’s Andre Onana, who will be available for the match against Spurs before joining Cameroon, and Tottenham’s AFCON-bound players, who will already be with their countries. He declined to judge the fairness or unfairness of the situation, stating that each club has the right to handle such matters independently.

 

The Tottenham manager reiterated his commitment to FIFA rules regarding player availability for international tournaments and expressed his desire for his players to represent their countries successfully. However, he emphasized that the health and well-being of the players upon their return remain his primary concern.

 

Postecoglou’s stance challenges the conventional wisdom that clubs should avoid signing players from countries with mid-season international tournaments. His unwavering support for international football and his belief in the transformative power of representing one’s country set a refreshing example in the world of club football.