Mali coach Tom Saintfiet has added his voice to the growing criticism of FIFA’s decision to change player-release dates ahead of the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations in Morocco.
The new release window has sparked backlash across Africa, with many arguing it favors European clubs while disrupting national team preparations.
FIFA’s Chief of Global Football Development, Arsène Wenger, is at the center of the storm. Saintfiet accused the former Arsenal manager of lacking understanding of international football, saying the move shows “disregard for continents outside Europe.” 
He went further, questioning Wenger’s experience with national teams:“Apart from two seasons in Japan, he has only worked with big European clubs. Now he’s working for them, not for national teams.”
The debate continues as more African federations, coaches, and players raise concerns about the impact on AFCON 2025.