Samuel Osei Kuffour, one of Ghana’s most decorated footballers, continues to evoke admiration and controversy years after retiring. His career with the Black Stars, marked by passionate commitment and unmatched skill, was marred by a series of dishonorable treatments that reflected poorly on Ghana’s football administration. Journalist Manasseh Azure Awuni’s heartfelt critique of the Ghana Football Association’s (GFA) treatment of Kuffour and other national legends underscores systemic issues in how the nation values its sporting heroes.
Kuffour’s story is both inspiring and disheartening. At the peak of his career with Bayern Munich, where he won multiple Bundesliga titles and a UEFA Champions League trophy, his loyalty to the Black Stars was unwavering. Yet, in 2002, he was expelled from the African Cup of Nations (AFCON) in Mali for voicing concerns about poor team treatment. Later, a misplaced back-pass during Ghana’s debut World Cup in 2006 seemingly sealed his international fate. The GFA’s failure to offer him the respect he deserved tarnished his legacy, highlighting a recurring issue in Ghanaian football: the inability to honor its stalwarts.
“I never watched Abedi Ayew Pele play football. When my eyes opened and I started following football, the man considered Ghana’s greatest footballer had retired. I have only read about him and seen bits and pieces of his exploits on YouTube, so permit me to speak to what I know.
Since I started following the Black Stars, Samuel Osei Kuffour, has stood out as my all-time favorite. When his career peaked at FC Bayern München, his commitment to the Black Stars was matchless. He was lying at club level but played for Ghana as if his life depended on the Black Stars.
Towards the end of his career, however, Ghana’s FA treated Kuffour in a way that continues to hurt me. He was expelled from the African Cup of Nations tournament in Mali in 2002 when he complained about the ill-treatment meted out to the team.” Manasseh Azure Awuni wrote.
This pattern is not unique to Kuffour. Asamoah Gyan, the nation’s top scorer, and Andre Dede Ayew, whose leadership inspired countless victories, have faced similar indignities. The unceremonious sidelining of such players reflects a culture of disposability that prioritizes short-term results over long-term vision. Awuni compares this to how nations like Germany honor their retiring stars, such as İlkay Gündoğan and Manuel Neuer, creating an enduring bond between players and their countries.
The GFA’s shortcomings extend beyond individual players. Eight players withdrew from Ghana’s recent AFCON qualifier against Angola, with vague excuses highlighting a lack of motivation. This apathy stems from years of witnessing heroes discarded without gratitude. Why sacrifice for a system that offers no appreciation or protection?
Leadership on and off the pitch is crucial. Icons like Stephen Appiah and Ayew demonstrated this, inspiring their teams even in adversity. However, a rudderless administration leaves the current Black Stars without direction, mirroring what Pastor Mensa Otabil described as “momentum without purpose.”
A cultural shift is needed for Ghana to reclaim its football glory. The GFA must prioritize respect, effective leadership, and long-term planning. Honoring players who dedicate their lives to the national team is not just about them; it is about inspiring the next generation to give their all. Until then, Ghana risks alienating its footballing talent and fans alike, leaving its national team as a shadow of what it could be.
Source; Manasseh Azure Awuni Verified Facebook page.