by Emmanuel Atanga | Jan 20, 2025 | Africa, Europe, Ghana, International, Soccer
La Liga Transfer News | January Window
Spanish La Liga side Celta Vigo is reportedly set to part ways with Ghanaian international Joseph Aidoo during the upcoming January transfer window.
The decision follows a difficult period for the 29-year-old centre-back, who has struggled to regain his best form after an 11-month injury setback. This season, Aidoo has made just three appearances across all competitions under head coach Claudio Giráldez, with limited opportunities to re-establish himself as a key figure in the team.
According to reports from Spanish outlet Marca, Aidoo and his American teammate Lucas De La Torre are not in the manager’s long-term plans as the club looks to rebuild for the future. Despite having a contract with Celta that runs until June 2026, the club is considering an early termination to free up space in their squad.
Aidoo, known for his physical presence and defensive composure, has enjoyed a steady career that includes stints at KRC Genk and Hammarby IF. On the international stage, he has earned 17 caps for Ghana’s Black Stars and remains a respected figure for his national team.
Despite the challenges at Celta, Aidoo is expected to draw interest from clubs seeking a seasoned and dependable defender. His potential exit serves as a reminder of the challenges professional footballers face, where injuries and shifting managerial strategies can swiftly alter career trajectories.
by Emmanuel Atanga | Jan 20, 2025 | Africa, Ghana, International, Soccer, World Cup
Swiss Super League | Weekend Highlights
Ghana’s first-choice goalkeeper, Lawrence Ati-Zigi, delivered an exceptional performance as St Gallen secured a hard-fought 1-1 draw against Servette at the Stade de Genève in the Swiss Super League over the weekend.
The talented shot-stopper was the standout player of the match, producing several jaw-dropping saves to deny the home side a victory. Despite an early setback when Willem Geubbels gave Servette the lead, Ati-Zigi’s heroics kept his team in contention under intense pressure.
In the second half, defender Steve Rouiller capitalized on a chance to net the equalizer in the 70th minute, ensuring St Gallen left with a vital point. However, it was Ati-Zigi’s commanding presence in goal that proved to be the decisive factor in thwarting Servette’s relentless attack.
Ati-Zigi’s consistent form for both club and country solidifies his position as Ghana’s No.1 goalkeeper. His recent performances are expected to earn him a call-up for Ghana’s 2026 World Cup qualifiers against Chad and Madagascar in March 2025.
by Emmanuel Atanga | Jan 20, 2025 | AFCON, Africa, Ghana, Soccer
Former Black Stars striker Augustine Ahinful has called for a structural overhaul in the management of Ghana’s national football teams. He believes the current Management Committees should be replaced with a National Management Board to ensure more effective oversight and decision-making.
Ahinful’s comments come in the wake of the Ghana Football Association’s (GFA) announcement of a new Black Stars Management Committee. This followed the dissolution of the Mark Addo-led committee after Ghana’s failure to qualify for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON).
Speaking on Accra-based Sporty FM, Ahinful questioned the relevance of the current committees and suggested that a more diverse National Management Board could better serve the national teams.
“I have served on a Management Committee before, and I feel it would be better to have a National Management Board,” Ahinful explained. “This board shouldn’t only consist of football people but also include professionals from other fields who can bring fresh perspectives and make informed decisions.”
He elaborated on his vision, proposing a streamlined structure. “Imagine we have 10 people on the board, and for a Black Stars game, two members are delegated to oversee operations. This way, we can better utilize the resources and expertise available within the GFA,” he said.
Ahinful also criticized the inefficiencies of some committees. “I’ve seen instances where committee members didn’t even know the age brackets of invited players. If these committees were truly effective, they’d ensure technical teams receive the right guidance and support,” he added.
The newly formed Black Stars Management Committee includes notable figures such as Dr. Randy Abbey, who will chair the team and lead stakeholder engagements. Former Black Stars captain Stephen Appiah has been appointed Vice-Chairman, focusing on player relations. Other members include Samuel Aboabire, Moses Armah, and Richard Nsenkyire, who will handle operations, matchday activities, and special duties.
While the new committee brings experienced faces to the table, Ahinful’s suggestion of a broader National Management Board raises questions about whether the current setup can address Ghana’s ongoing football challenges effectively.
by Emmanuel Atanga | Jan 20, 2025 | Africa, Europe, Ghana, International, Soccer
For Ghanaian midfielder Michael Baidoo, one night at the Stadio Olimpico stands out as a defining moment in his football journey. Leading Swedish side Elfsborg in the Europa League, Baidoo not only captained his team against Italian giants AS Roma but also scored the decisive penalty in a historic 1-0 victory.
“That was a great moment. That’s my best football moment,” Baidoo told BBC World News, recalling the game that catapulted him into the spotlight.
Baidoo’s heroics in the group stage saw him net five goals, solidifying his reputation as a key player for Elfsborg. The Roma game, in particular, was monumental for both the player and the club. “Playing against Roma, being the captain, and scoring the winning goal—it was a huge moment for the whole of Sweden. It put the club on the map again,” he said.
Although Baidoo was set to join Plymouth Argyle last summer, Elfsborg’s Europa League campaign delayed his move. Ultimately, his stellar performances, including his leadership and goal-scoring prowess, helped him secure a record-breaking transfer to the English Championship club.
Before leaving Sweden, Baidoo made 76 appearances for Elfsborg, scoring 23 goals and cementing his legacy as one of the club’s standout performers. Now, he’s ready to create more unforgettable moments on English soil.
by Emmanuel Atanga | Jan 20, 2025 | Africa, Europe, Ghana, International, Soccer
When Michael Baidoo signed with Plymouth Argyle earlier this month, he not only became the club’s record signing but also took a significant step toward fulfilling a lifelong dream: playing in England and emulating his idol, Michael Essien.
The 25-year-old Ghanaian midfielder, who joined the Pilgrims from Swedish side Elfsborg in a deal reportedly worth over £1.5 million, has carried with him the lessons and guidance from one of football’s most celebrated midfielders.
Baidoo grew up admiring Essien, a Chelsea legend who also played for Real Madrid and AC Milan, winning multiple titles, including the UEFA Champions League and two Premier League trophies. Now, Essien’s advice resonates deeply as Baidoo carves his own path in the English Championship.
“Stay humble and keep working hard because you don’t see it, but people do,” Baidoo shared, recalling Essien’s words during an interview with the BBC World Service.
Baidoo emphasized how Essien’s humility and relentless work ethic paved the way for his legendary status in world football. “He was humble and kept working hard, and now he’s a legend. I want to follow in those footsteps.”
Since joining Plymouth Argyle, Baidoo has already made three appearances, showcasing his determination to prove himself worthy of his record-breaking transfer.
For Baidoo, the journey is just beginning, but with Essien’s wisdom as a guiding light, the Ghanaian midfielder is well-equipped to make his mark.
