“I’m able to give 100 percent” | OneFootball

Ellyes Skhiri on Eintracht’s end-of-year run-in, his treatment during the game in Barcelona and playing in the Africa Cup of Nations with Tunisia.

The 35th Africa Cup of Nations is being held in Morocco between 21 December and 18 January. Among the 24 participating teams are a Tunisia side featuring Eintracht Frankfurt’s Ellyes Skhiri, who is taking part in the competition for the fourth time after 2019, 2022 and 2024. Having made four international appearances so far this year, the midfielder is set to win his 75th cap in the very near future. Before then, though, the 30-year-old’s full focus is on the Eagles’ final two Bundesliga games of 2025.

Ellyes, what can you take from the 2-1 defeat to Barcelona as you head into your final few games of the year?“I think we delivered a good performance which we want to build on. The team’s reaction was superb, which was important. We saw once again how strong we are when we stick together and perform with passion. That’s precisely what we need to keep doing in order to finish the year successfully.”

You were given some early treatment but were able to carry on playing. What was the matter, and are you in the clear now?“I’ve had a few knee problems in recent months. It’s been painful at times, but I’m feeling better and better and am able to give 100 percent.”

You’ve been named in Tunisia’s Africa Cup of Nations squad for the fourth time. Have you set a goal for the tournament?“We know the Africa Cup of Nations is always a difficult tournament. Things didn’t go well for us last time out [when we were knocked out after the group stage with two points from three games]. That’s why, first and foremost, we want to show a different side of ourselves. We’re ambitious, but we have to focus on ourselves and see what lies ahead. We have a good team and we’re prepared.”

How would you describe your role in the national team?“I’m no longer one of the young players in the team. I’ve played quite a few games (74 appearances) and have gained a lot of experience. As such, I see it as my responsibility to set an example. I hope I can help the team a lot, including by being a calming influence. Big tournaments like these can always be a little stressful.”

Nigeria, Tanzania and Uganda are your opponents in the group phase. How do you assess your chances?“There are no small teams in this tournament. Every game will be very, very difficult, but we still have every chance of progressing. That’s the goal we’ve set ourselves. The Africa Cup of Nations is a really great opportunity for all of us to represent our country and make our fans proud.”