The Confederation of African Football (CAF) has asked UEFA to open an investigation against Napoli president Aurelio De Laurentiis, who has said he no longer wants to transfer African players who want to play at the African Cup of Nations.

In a press release, the representative body of African football announced that it was “dismayed by the irresponsible and unacceptable remarks” made by the head of the Neapolitan club and asked to open an investigation against the Italian, writes News.ro.

“De Laurentiis’ comments most likely fall under Article 14 of UEFA’s Disciplinary Regulations. Therefore, CAF calls on UEFA to open a disciplinary investigation against him,” the press release of the confederation emphasizes, which later notes that this is one of the main competitions in the world.

The relevant Article 14 states: “Any person subject to Article 3 who violates the human dignity of a person or group of persons for any reason, including colour, race, religion, ethnic origin, gender or sexual orientation, shall be removed at least ten matches or a fixed period or any other appropriate sanction.’

Aurelio de Laurentiis no longer wants to transfer players who want to take part in the Africa Cup of Nations

Napoli will sign new African players only if they agree not to take part in the African Cup of Nations, a competition usually organized during the season, the Italian club’s president, Aurelio De Laurentiis, has said.

“Stop talking to me about African footballers. I wish them all the best, but either they sign the Africa Cup of Nations waiver or (…) I will never have them at my disposal. We are idiots who pay salaries to send them to play for others,” said the Neapolitan leader in a program broadcast on Tuesday night by the economic website Wall Street Italia.