Bayer Leverkusen’s star defender, Jeremie Frimpong, couldn’t hide his excitement as he arrived in Ghana for the first time on Sunday night. The 23-year-old Netherlands international, whose parents hail from Ghana, was warmly welcomed at Kotoka International Airport as he kicked off a one-week holiday trip to the country.

Frimpong, who had expressed his intent to visit Ghana after Bayer Leverkusen’s Champions League triumph over Inter Milan earlier in December, finally made the journey. His arrival marks a momentous occasion, fulfilling a long-held dream of reconnecting with his roots.

In a heartfelt statement upon landing, Frimpong shared his joy: “Amazing. To come to this welcoming atmosphere for the first time, amazing. This is my people. I’m so happy to see everybody; I’m so happy to be in Ghana.”

The talented right-back reflected on his deep connection with the country, saying, “I’ve always been connected to my Ghanaian roots. Both my parents are Ghanaians, I eat Ghanaian food, I speak the language, so I feel like I’ve always been connected, but obviously being here makes it extra special.”

Frimpong elaborated on why this trip meant so much to him, saying, “I have to come to Ghana; this is where I am from. My blood is Ghanaian blood, so for sure I had to come here one day, and this is the right time to come.”

The trip is a testament to Frimpong’s ongoing embrace of his heritage, even as he excels on the international stage, most recently playing a key role in Bayer Leverkusen’s historic Bundesliga title win with 16 goals last season. His visit to Ghana marks the beginning of an exciting chapter in his personal journey as he continues to bridge his Ghanaian roots with his remarkable football career.