Bayer Leverkusen manager, Xabi Alonso has expressed his dissatisfaction with the timing of the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON).

The biennial competition is scheduled to take place from January 13 to February 11 next year in Cote d’Ivoire.

Alonso is concerned about the potential absence of five key players from Bayer Leverkusen’s squad during this period.

The affected players include Victor Boniface and Nathan Tella, who are likely to be part of Nigeria’s squad for the AFCON.

Additionally, Bayer Leverkusen could miss the services of Moroccan forward Amine Adli, Burkina Faso centre-back Edmond Tapsoba, and Ivorian defender Odilon Kossounou.

“It is a concern for January and February, perhaps not having five players. It is a reality. We have to accept that,” Alonso said according to Transfermarkt.

Victor Boniface has been one of the most important players for Xabi Alonso’s side this season with eleven goals and six assists so far this season.