by Emmanuel Atanga | Jan 8, 2025 | Africa, Europe, Ghana, International, Soccer
Mohammed Kudus, the Ghanaian football star, is on the brink of a new phase in his career as his team’s head coach has been relieved of their duties. The sudden decision has left fans and players alike anticipating the arrival of a new coach to steer the ship. With Kudus in top form, all eyes are on who will take up the mantle and guide the team forward.
The coming days promise to be pivotal, with speculation rife about the potential new tactician. Kudus, known for his adaptability and skill, is expected to thrive under fresh leadership, bringing renewed hope to his team and fans.
by Emmanuel Atanga | Jan 8, 2025 | Africa, Europe, Ghana, International, Soccer
Southampton is weighing up the possibility of sending 18-year-old forward Sam Amo-Ameyaw out on loan for the rest of the 2024/25 season. The Ghanaian-English teenager, who broke into the Saints’ first team earlier this season, has found playing time hard to come by, making just four appearances so far.
The arrival of new head coach Ivan Jurić has prompted a review of the club’s younger talents, with the manager emphasizing the need for regular game time to foster their development. “For young players, playing is the best. They shouldn’t lose time,” Jurić told The Daily Echo. “We have youngsters like Tyler Dibling, Mateus Fernandes, and Lesley Ugochukwu playing regularly, which is good. But if a young player isn’t playing, it’s not good. A loan is the best solution for those in this situation.”
Amo-Ameyaw, who made a strong impression during pre-season and under former boss Russell Martin, could now benefit from a spell away from St. Mary’s to gain consistent minutes. Several clubs have reportedly expressed interest in the dynamic forward, eager to offer him an opportunity to hone his skills.
The proposed loan move aligns with Southampton’s broader strategy of developing their academy stars by exposing them to competitive action. With interest building, Amo-Ameyaw could soon find himself in a new environment where he can thrive and further his career.
by Emmanuel Atanga | Jan 8, 2025 | Africa, Europe, Ghana, International, Soccer
In a hard-fought French Super Cup final at Stadium 974 in Doha, Qatar, AS Monaco fell to Paris Saint-Germain following a dramatic last-minute goal from Ousmane Dembélé. Despite the heartbreak, Ghanaian defender Mohammed Salisu remains positive and is urging fans and teammates to stay patient.
Salisu, who played the entire match, put on a stellar defensive display, helping Monaco stay competitive against PSG’s star-studded lineup. However, in the dying moments of the game, a cross from the left flank slipped past the Monaco defenders and found Dembélé, who calmly slotted it home to secure a 1-0 victory for the French champions.
After the match, Salisu took to social media to share an inspiring message:
“Trust the process; you’re doing great!! It’s part of the game. Lord knows.”
The Black Stars center-back, who joined Monaco this season, has been a key figure for the Red and White, making 15 appearances and even finding the back of the net once. As Ligue 1 resumes after the winter break, Salisu and his teammates will shift focus to their next challenge, an away game against FC Nantes on Friday.
Despite the setback, Salisu’s resilience and leadership continue to shine, earning him respect on and off the pitch.
by Emmanuel Atanga | Jan 8, 2025 | Africa, Ghana, Soccer
Outgoing GHALCA President Kudjoe Fianoo has pointed to the lack of corporate sponsorship as a key factor behind the diminishing influence of the Ghana League Clubs Association. Speaking in an interview with Citi Sports, Fianoo expressed concern over the waning appeal of Ghanaian football to corporate entities, which has hindered the association’s ability to run effective programs.
“Football is no longer appealing to corporate Ghana,” Fianoo lamented. “Programs that require sponsorships struggle to reach the level we aspire to because the support just isn’t there.”
Beyond the sponsorship drought, Fianoo highlighted another pressing issue: the indifferent attitude of Ghanaian clubs towards GHALCA. He noted that many clubs prioritize their relationships with the Ghana Football Association (GFA) over their commitment to GHALCA, further straining the association’s relevance.
Fianoo, who has served as GHALCA president since 2016, is set to step down at the end of the month. Reflecting on his tenure, he expressed concern about the association’s future, warning that these challenges must be urgently addressed to restore GHALCA’s standing in Ghanaian football.
by Emmanuel Atanga | Jan 8, 2025 | Africa, Europe, Ghana, International, Soccer
In a hard-fought match against Norwich City, Coventry City manager Frank Lampard found a silver lining in the form of Ghanaian forward Brandon Thomas-Asante. Despite the Sky Blues falling to a 2-1 defeat, Lampard was full of praise for the 26-year-old’s tireless effort and overall contribution on the pitch.
“Brandon’s work ethic was exceptional,” Lampard remarked. “His hold-up play and movement off the ball were standout qualities tonight. He gives everything for the team, and that’s the kind of attitude we need to push forward.”
Thomas-Asante, who joined Coventry City from West Bromwich Albion, has cemented his place as a regular starter, clocking his 27th appearance of the season. Playing the full 90 minutes, the Ghanaian international showcased why he remains a key figure in Lampard’s plans.
While the defeat dropped Coventry City to 16th in the league standings after 26 games, Lampard maintained optimism, urging his side to take the result “on the chin” and bounce back. He also highlighted the collective performance of the squad, emphasizing his belief in their potential to climb the table.
Lampard, who replaced Mark Robbins earlier this season, continues to mold his team amid a challenging campaign. With players like Thomas-Asante leading by example, Coventry fans have reason to hope for better results in the weeks to come.
