Liverpool midfielder Naby Keita has been caught up in a volatile political situation in Guinea.
The 26-year-old was set to represent the African nation against Morocco today (6/9/2021), but the fixture has been postponed following an attempted coup of the country’s government.
Various outlets have reported contrastingly on the success or otherwise of the takeover, although it would appear the country is in a state of relative emergency.
In a statement from FIFA, the organisation alongside CAF (Confederation of African Football) have decided to abandon plans for the World Cup qualifier in the wake of the uncertainty.
The current political and security situation in Guinea is quite volatile and is being closely monitored by FIFA and CAF. To ensure the safety and security of all players and to protect all match officials, FIFA and CAF have decided to postpone the FIFA World Cup 2022 qualifying match Guinea vs. Morocco, which had [been] scheduled to be hosted in Conakry, Guinea, on Monday 6 September.
It remains to be seen whether the borders will be closed for a prolonged period and indeed whether Keita will be able to leave the country and head back to England.
The national side’s captain, the Liverpool ace has represented the nation on 38 occasions and has made a bright start to the new Premier League campaign.
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This could come as an unwelcome blow to Jurgen Klopp’s plans as the Reds prepare for a trip to Leeds United on Saturday.
Already likely to be without James Milner, Roberto Firmino and Takumi Minamino for the clash at Elland Road, losing the £28.8million valued Guinean would be a big shame.
Should Keita indeed be absent, a midfield trio of Fabinho, Jordan Henderson and Thiago could be in line to make just their second start together.
