World football governing body, FIFA, has directed clubs globally to release all players called up for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations on or before December 8, a mandate that applies to all 24 qualified nations, including Nigeria’s Super Eagles, Nigeriasoccernet.com reports.
The participating countries have already submitted provisional squads of 55 players each, from which the final tournament lists will be selected. FIFA’s instruction aligns with its international release regulations, ensuring players report early enough to begin full preparations ahead of the continental competition.
AFCON 2025 is scheduled to be held in Morocco from December 21, 2025, to January 18, 2026, and national teams are expected to open their training camps soon. The early release window will give coaches and technical crews enough time to fine-tune tactics, assess fitness levels, and complete their final squad decisions.
Nigeria, seeking a fourth African title, will aim for a strong tournament outing in Morocco as preparations intensify in the coming weeks.