by Emmanuel Atanga | Jan 11, 2025 | Africa, Europe, Ghana, International, Soccer
Manchester United manager Ruben Amorim has firmly stated his desire to keep 19-year-old midfielder Kobbie Mainoo at Old Trafford amid intensifying interest from Premier League rivals Chelsea.
The English-born Ghanaian, who has been a standout product of United’s academy, is reportedly on Chelsea’s radar, with the London club prepared to offer £70 million for his services. However, Amorim is keen on retaining the highly-rated youngster, emphasizing Mainoo’s growth and importance to United’s future.
Speaking on the situation, Amorim said, “Kobbie is improving, and I’m really happy with him. My players are always my favourites, and I want to keep them, especially the talented ones. Our goal is always to retain the players we’ve developed, but we’re aware of the financial challenges we face.”
United’s financial constraints under profit and sustainability rules (PSR) have complicated their efforts to retain home-grown talent. Amorim acknowledged the delicate balance between securing the club’s financial stability and holding on to its rising stars, referencing Marcus Rashford’s recent injury as an example of how crucial academy graduates are to the team.
Mainoo is currently negotiating a new contract with Manchester United, but his future remains uncertain as Chelsea continue to monitor the situation closely. Despite the mounting pressure, Amorim remains optimistic, reiterating his commitment to building around United’s academy players.
by Emmanuel Atanga | Jan 11, 2025 | Africa, Ghana, Soccer
Ghana-born forward Joel Kojo has taken another significant step in his football journey, signing a two-year contract with Iranian giants Esteghlal FC, with an option for a third year. At just 26 years old, Kojo’s career trajectory has been nothing short of inspiring.
Having showcased his goal-scoring ability in Uzbekistan with Dinamo Samarqand—where he netted eight goals in 24 matches last season—Kojo now faces the challenge of shining in one of Asia’s most competitive leagues. His performances in Uzbekistan not only elevated his profile but also earned him a place on the Kyrgyzstan national team. Kojo made his international debut on June 16, 2023, against Iran during the CAFA Nations Cup.
Esteghlal FC, a powerhouse in Iranian football with nine league titles and two Asian Champions League trophies, is currently navigating a challenging season, sitting 8th in the Iranian Premier League. However, the arrival of Kojo and the leadership of legendary South African coach Pitso Mosimane offer fresh hope for a turnaround.
Kojo’s move represents a blend of personal ambition and professional growth, as he now has the chance to learn under Mosimane, a manager renowned for his tactical acumen and success across Africa and Asia. For Esteghlal fans, this signing brings optimism that Kojo’s speed, skill, and goal-scoring instincts can play a pivotal role in the club’s resurgence.
by Emmanuel Atanga | Jan 11, 2025 | Africa, Ghana, International, Soccer, World Cup
Ghana’s Black Satellites Players to Receive Long-Awaited Investment Payouts
Former Ghana international and U-20 World Cup winner Emmanuel Agyemang Badu has verified the legitimacy of SAS Finance Group’s invitation to the 21 players of Ghana’s historic 2009 Black Satellites team. The players have been invited to collect their matured investment cheques, a gesture tied to their remarkable achievement in Egyptian soil.
The 2009 Black Satellites made history as the first African team to win the FIFA U-20 World Cup, defeating Brazil in a dramatic penalty shootout. This victory not only solidified Ghana’s place in global football history but also promised long-term rewards for the players.
In light of the payout, Agyemang Badu encouraged his teammates to honor the invitation, acknowledging the significance of the financial reward as a lasting tribute to their extraordinary accomplishment 15 years ago.
“Let’s all be proud of this achievement and continue to honor the legacy we created,” Badu stated. He also used the moment to reflect on the leadership of the late President Prof. John Evans Atta Mills, under whose administration Ghana achieved this milestone, offering a prayer for his peaceful rest.
The players’ payout adds another chapter to Ghana’s proud football history, reminding the nation of the importance of celebrating and supporting its heroes.
by Emmanuel Atanga | Jan 11, 2025 | AFCON, Africa, Ghana, International, Soccer, World Cup
Black Stars Head Coach Retention Uncertain Amid Calls for Structural Changes
The Ghana Football Association (GFA) is weighing the appointment of a technical director to support Black Stars head coach Otto Addo, following the team’s failure to qualify for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON).
Under Addo’s leadership, the Black Stars endured a dismal qualifying campaign, managing just three points from six games and finishing at the bottom of Group F. The outcome has triggered widespread criticism and placed immense pressure on the GFA to make sweeping changes to the national team’s structure.
Otto Addo, who signed a three-year contract in March 2024 with an optional two-year extension, now faces an uncertain future. Following a marathon meeting between Addo, his technical team, and the GFA, the association announced it would consult further stakeholders before deciding on the coach’s fate.
Reports, however, suggest that the GFA may retain Addo but dissolve his current backroom staff. The proposed hiring of a technical director is seen as a strategic move to bolster the team’s preparations for the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers, set to resume in March against Chad and Madagascar.
Meanwhile, the GFA’s financial struggles have come under scrutiny, with Communications Director Henry Asante Twum confirming that Otto Addo is owed four months of unpaid wages. “It is true that we owe Otto Addo. The last time I checked with the Sports Ministry, there were salaries in arrears, which is not new. We are still working on it,” Asante Twum stated.
The Black Stars, reeling from a disappointing AFCON campaign, are now focused on rebuilding and delivering improved performances in upcoming World Cup qualifiers, with the addition of a technical director viewed as a critical step in reviving the team’s fortunes.
by Emmanuel Atanga | Jan 11, 2025 | Africa, Europe, Ghana, International, Soccer
Ghanaian Forward Brings Championship Pedigree to Strengthen ZTE’s Attack
Zalaegerszeg FC has bolstered their squad with the signing of Ghanaian international Kwabena Owusu on a six-month deal. The 26-year-old forward joins the Hungarian side with a proven track record of success across various leagues, aiming to enhance the team’s attacking options.
Owusu’s career journey began in Ghana before he moved to Spain, where he featured for clubs such as Real Oviedo, Leganés, Cartagena, Salamanca, and Córdoba. He later made his mark in Azerbaijan with Qarabağ FK, winning the league title, followed by championship victories in Turkey with Ankaragücü and Hungary with Ferencváros.
On the international stage, Owusu represented Ghana at the 2019 Africa Cup of Nations and debuted for the Black Stars in a friendly against South Africa the same year. His experience and versatility make him a valuable asset for Zalaegerszeg FC, a club known for its resilience and past success, including their 2002 Hungarian Cup triumph.
Owusu expressed excitement about the opportunity and is eager to make an immediate impact, both in scoring goals and contributing to the team’s overall success. With the club currently aiming to climb the league standings, his arrival is expected to provide a significant boost.
Should Owusu impress during his short stint, an extended stay at Zalaegerszeg FC could be on the horizon.
