Ivory Coast’s early exit from the Africa Cup of Nations has caused big changes in the Premier League this weekend. The news means players can return to their clubs sooner than expected. One of the most important names is Ibrahim Sangare, who could now play against Arsenal. This also affects Manchester City, as another returning player could face them in a huge match. What happened at AFCON may now shape key games in England.
International tournaments often change club football plans. This time, the impact has come very quickly. Teams thought they would miss players. Now, they may have to face them again.
Ivory Coast exit the AFCON after a 3-2 defeat to Egypt 🇪🇬
Ibrahim Sangare will be coming back to #NFFC along with Willy Boly 🇨🇮 pic.twitter.com/gztVVdndLW
— Red Side of the Trent – NFFC Fans Podcast 🔴⚽️🎙 (@redsidetrentpod) January 10, 2026
Ibrahim Sangare and Nottingham Forest’s Big Boost
Nottingham Forest were waiting nervously for news from AFCON. Ibrahim Sangare and Willy Boly were both with Ivory Coast at the tournament. If Ivory Coast had reached the semi-finals, both players would have missed the match against Arsenal.
But Ivory Coast lost in the quarter-finals. That means the players can return to England earlier. This is very good news for Forest.
Ibrahim Sangare is an important player for Forest. He plays in midfield and helps protect the defence. He is strong, calm on the ball, and good at stopping attacks. Before AFCON, Sangare started 11 of Forest’s first 16 Premier League games. He also played when Forest faced Arsenal earlier in the season.
At AFCON, Sangare stayed sharp. He started four of Ivory Coast’s five matches. This means he should be fit and ready to play again very soon.
Willy Boly’s situation is different. He has not started a league game for Forest this season. He mostly came off the bench at AFCON as well. Because of this, Sangare is far more likely to play against Arsenal than Boly.
For Arsenal, this makes the match harder. Facing Forest without Sangare would have been easier. With him back, Forest look stronger in midfield.
Ibrahim Sangare’s Return and a Knock-On Effect for Man City
The impact of Ibrahim Sangare returning does not stop with Arsenal. Ivory Coast’s exit also affects Manchester City in a different way.
Manchester United winger Amad Diallo was also at AFCON. Like Sangare, he is now free to return early. Diallo has been in great form. He scored three goals and made one assist during the tournament. He also scored in his last match for United before leaving.
Diallo was always going to be back in time to face Arsenal later. But now, he could also play against Manchester City this weekend. That is a big deal.
Manchester City are chasing points at the top of the table. Playing against an in-form Diallo adds danger. He is quick, skilful, and confident. Against City’s high defence, his speed could cause problems.
So while Arsenal deal with Sangare’s return, City must prepare for Diallo. One tournament result has changed two major matches.
Fans React as AFCON Changes the Story
Fans have reacted strongly online. Many Arsenal fans are unhappy. They feel unlucky that Ibrahim Sangare is back in time to face them. Some say January never brings good news.
Manchester United fans are happier. They are excited to see Diallo again. Many want him to start against City.
Neutral fans are enjoying the drama. They say this shows how football can change very fast.
What This Means Going Forward
These returns could matter a lot. Sangare could help Forest frustrate Arsenal. Diallo could trouble Manchester City. Small changes like this can decide titles.
AFCON may be over for Ivory Coast, but its impact on the Premier League is only just beginning. Some might be thinking how one two-player can change the scenario. But history has witnessed how it is possible, e.g., Didier Drogba’s second spell at Chelsea.
As featured on GoonerNews.com