European Club Association research says more than half the players at the 16-nation African Cup of Nations come from teams in Europe.
The ECA says Ivory Coast has the most Europe-based players with 21 of the 23-man squad, including brothers Yaya and Kolo Toure from Manchester City. Didier Drogba plays in China.
Ethiopia has the most home-based players with 20 from domestic teams.
The ECA says 188 of 368 players selected for the tournament in South Africa play in Europe, representing 137 clubs from 26 European leagues.
French clubs provide 55 players, including five each from Ajaccio, Brest and Evian. Twenty play in England.
A total of 155 players represent African clubs. One - Ethiopia forward Fuad Ibrahim - plays in Major League Soccer, for the Minnesota Stars.
