by Emmanuel Atanga | Jul 9, 2025 | Africa, Europe, Ghana, International, Soccer
Ghanaian winger Ibrahim Osman has expressed his excitement after completing a season-long loan move to French Ligue 1 side AJ Auxerre from Premier League outfit Brighton & Hove Albion.
The 20-year-old sealed the deal on Tuesday, July 8, and is already looking forward to making an impact in France. In a short video shared by the club on social media, Osman said: “Happy to be here. Can’t wait to get started. See you soon.”
AJ Auxerre have confirmed that Osman will wear the number 23 jersey for the 2025/26 season. The deal includes an option for the French club to make the transfer permanent at the end of the campaign.
In a statement announcing the signing, Auxerre highlighted the Ghanaian’s attributes: “A two-time Ghanaian international, Ibrahim already possesses top-level experience for both club and country despite his young age. His speed and ability to take on defenders will be valuable assets for our squad.”
Osman now prepares to kickstart this new chapter in Ligue 1, hoping to reignite his form and gain valuable minutes in a competitive league.
by Emmanuel Atanga | Jul 8, 2025 | Africa, Europe, Ghana, International, Soccer, World Cup
Real Oviedo midfielder Kwasi Sibo has hailed the leadership of former Black Stars skipper Andre Ayew, describing his presence and command on the pitch as exceptional.
In an interview on Asempa FM, Sibo also shared his thoughts on Jordan Ayew, who succeeded his older brother as captain of the Ghana national team earlier this year. He acknowledged Jordan’s work ethic and leadership potential but believes Andre’s influence remains unmatched.
“Jordan Ayew is a good player, and his commitment is unquestionable, but I think Andre Ayew’s leadership skills are above Jordan’s leadership skills,” Sibo stated. “You could always see Andre controlling the players on the pitch when he was with the team. But now that Jordan has been given the armband, maybe we can see something different from him.”
Jordan Ayew, currently with Leicester City, was handed the captaincy in March ahead of Ghana’s 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifying matches. He led the Black Stars to a resounding 5-0 win over Chad and a solid 3-0 victory over Madagascar, and recently guided the team to a third-place finish in the 2024 Unity Cup held in London.
Jordan is expected to continue in his role when Ghana returns to World Cup qualifying action against Chad and Mali in September.
by Emmanuel Atanga | Jul 8, 2025 | Africa, Europe, Ghana, International, Soccer
Ghanaian forward Mohammed Fuseini is brimming with excitement as Union Saint-Gilloise prepares for its historic return to the UEFA Champions League after a 90-year wait.
The Belgian side’s remarkable title-winning campaign in the 2024/25 season secured them automatic qualification to Europe’s most prestigious club competition, a milestone that means the world to the 22-year-old attacker.
“This is like one of my dreams coming true,” Fuseini told Sportsblog247.com. “Even though I’ve played in the Champions League before, it was only in the qualification stage. Now getting to play in the real Champions League, it means a lot to me.”
Fuseini, who netted nine goals in 33 appearances under coach Sebastien Pocognoli, is already visualizing himself on football’s grandest stage — facing elite opponents.
“I’m looking forward to playing against big teams like Real Madrid, PSG, Liverpool, and other top clubs. It will be a great experience.”
Despite Union SG’s underdog status, Fuseini believes the squad is ready to make an impact.
“I think we should be able to go past the group phase because we have a good squad and a good coach. I think everything is possible.”
Union fans will be hoping Fuseini’s ambition and confidence inspire a memorable Champions League campaign.
by Emmanuel Atanga | Jul 8, 2025 | Africa, Europe, Ghana, International, Soccer
FC Aarau sporting director Elsad Zverotic has expressed confidence that Ghanaian forward Daniel Afriyie Barnieh will add valuable quality and experience to the squad following his recent transfer from FC Zürich.
The 24-year-old signed a two-year deal with the Swiss Challenge League side after mutually parting ways with Zürich, where he made 50 appearances but struggled to cement a regular starting spot.
Despite a challenging stint in the Swiss Super League, Barnieh arrives at Aarau with high expectations. Zverotic praised the former Accra Hearts of Oak star’s attributes and believes his background at both club and international level will be a huge asset.
“Daniel is a quick, dynamic player and will strengthen our team with his experience in the Swiss Super League and on the international stage with the Ghanaian national team,” Zverotic stated.
Barnieh, who has earned nine caps for Ghana’s senior national team, was a standout figure during the Black Satellites’ 2021 U-20 Africa Cup of Nations triumph, scoring twice in the final against Uganda.
Aarau will be banking on the Ghanaian forward to reignite his form and play a key role in their push for promotion to the top tier.
by Emmanuel Atanga | Jul 8, 2025 | Africa, Europe, Ghana, International, Soccer
Ghanaian forward Daniel Afriyie Barnieh has officially kicked off his journey with Swiss Challenge League outfit FC Aarau, taking part in his first training session with the club this week.
The 24-year-old attacker was captured in high spirits as he trained alongside his new teammates in footage shared on Aarau’s social media platforms on Tuesday. His involvement marks the start of a fresh chapter after a difficult stint at FC Zürich, where he struggled to cement a regular starting role.
Barnieh joined Aarau on a free transfer following the mutual termination of his contract with Zürich earlier this summer. He had initially signed for the Swiss Super League side in January 2023 on a three-and-a-half-year deal, going on to make 50 appearances and contributing two goals and four assists across all competitions.
Despite his efforts, consistent game time proved elusive, prompting the former Hearts of Oak star to seek new opportunities. His switch to Aarau—who are eyeing promotion to the top flight—presents a renewed chance to re-establish himself in European football.
With international experience and proven quality at youth and senior levels for Ghana, Barnieh is expected to add firepower and maturity to Aarau’s forward line as the 2025/26 season approaches.
