Bernard Dong-Bortey, renowned for his time with Hearts of Oak and the Ghana national team, believes he would have soared to greatness in today’s football landscape. Despite his domestic success, Dong-Bortey feels he could have rivaled the likes of Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo if he had played in the current era.

During his tenure with Hearts of Oak, Dong-Bortey clinched numerous accolades, including the prestigious CAF Confederation Cup. However, his venture abroad, marked by brief stints in Israel and Sweden, didn’t mirror his local triumphs.

In a recent interview with Mothers FM, Dong-Bortey expressed his conviction, stating, “If I were playing in today’s football, I would undoubtedly be among the world’s elite. Yet, I’m thankful for the journey God has led me on. The legacy of the name ‘Dong Bortey’ will endure.”

Despite limited opportunities on the international stage, with just seven appearances for the Black Stars of Ghana, Dong-Bortey’s impact in the Ghana Premier League remains indelible.

As he reflects on his career, Dong-Bortey’s sentiments shed light on the aspirations and challenges faced by athletes striving for recognition beyond their local leagues.