AFCON: Moyes confirms when Idrissa Gana Gueye, Ndiaye will join Senegal

Everton manager David Moyes has confirmed Senegal internationals Idrissa Gana Gueye and Iliman Ndiaye will head to the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) after playing against Chelsea.

The Toffees will travel to the face the Blues at Stamford Bridge on Saturday. Speaking ahead of the fixture at Finch Farm, Moyes revealed Gana and Iliman Ndiaye will both leave Everton’s squad to join Senegal ahead of the AFCON after the fixture.

The 35th edition of the AFCON will get under way on Sunday December 21 and concludes on Sunday, January 18.

Moyes wants respect for AFCON

“We have to respect completely the Africa Cup of Nations,” said Moyes as quoted by Everton website.

“The players will go to play in the tournament for their countries and rightly so. It’s a great thing they get selected for their countries and we hope they do well.

“Obviously, I don’t think it’s something that’s ever pleased any manager at any club that you have to lose your players, but we’ve got them for this weekend, then we’ll wish them well.”

Senegal head coach Pape Thiaw is yet to unveil his final squad for the AFCON in the North African nation.

The Lions of Teranga lifted the title in 2021, their first in history, but were eliminated in the Round of 16 at the last edition by eventual champions Ivory Coast.

They will begin their AFCON campaign on December 23, facing Botswana in their opening Group C match. Senegal will also meet DR Congo and Benin as they seek to advance from a competitive group.

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