by Emmanuel Atanga | Feb 11, 2025 | Africa, Ghana, International, Soccer, World Cup
Accra, Ghana – Ghanaian football legend Andre Ayew has sent an inspiring message to young African footballers, urging them to stay dedicated and never give up on their dreams.
Ayew, 35, rose to prominence early in his career, captaining Ghana’s U20 team to a historic FIFA U20 World Cup victory in 2009. He later became a key figure for the Black Stars and enjoyed a successful club career across Europe.
Speaking to BBC Sport Africa, the Le Havre forward emphasized the importance of perseverance and discipline in achieving success.
“It’s never too early, and it’s never too late. Just keep going, and you can always be successful,” Ayew advised.
Despite his long and decorated career, Ayew made it clear that he still has the passion and drive to compete at the highest level.
“I love what I’m doing, and I’m not ready to stop,” he said.
With Ghana set to face Chad and Madagascar in the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers next month, speculation is growing about a possible return to the Black Stars squad for the veteran forward.
by Emmanuel Atanga | Feb 11, 2025 | Africa, Europe, Ghana, International, Soccer
Manchester, England – Manchester United legend Paul Scholes has voiced concerns over the role of young midfielder Kobbie Mainoo, claiming the club is unsure how to utilize his talents effectively.
Speaking on The Overlap, Scholes suggested that Mainoo, who broke into the first team with promise last season, is now struggling due to being played in multiple positions under Erik ten Hag.
“I think Mainoo is lost. They don’t know what to do with him,” Scholes stated. “He has been played as a number 10, in a midfield two, and even as a false nine, which doesn’t suit him at all. He’s a great footballer, but I don’t think he’s the greatest athlete for certain roles.”
The 18-year-old recently featured in an unfamiliar attacking role during United’s defeat to Crystal Palace, raising further questions about his positioning. Scholes believes this constant positional shift could be hampering Mainoo’s development rather than helping him grow.
As Manchester United navigate a turbulent season, finding the right role for Mainoo could be crucial in maximizing his potential.
by Emmanuel Atanga | Feb 11, 2025 | Africa, Europe, Ghana, International, Soccer
Accra, Ghana – Ghanaian football icon Andre Ayew has called on players to remain strong and not let online abuse affect their game. While he acknowledges that constructive criticism can be beneficial, he believes footballers must ignore baseless negativity on social media.
Speaking to BBC Sport Africa, the Le Havre forward emphasized the importance of focus and resilience in the face of criticism.
“It’s all about you, focusing on your job and what you have to do. Everything has a good and bad side, so sometimes try to understand where the criticism comes from—it can help you. We play football for the people, especially in our country and continent where we love the game so much. But, today, if somebody is frustrated, they can just write anything (online). That’s where we need to be strong and not pay attention to that sort of thing,” Ayew stated.
The Black Stars captain further advised players to prioritize feedback from coaches and analysts rather than engage with online negativity.
“You want to make the people happy, (but) when it’s just nonsense talk, push it away. With my experience, I just feel that you need to stay focused, listen to what the coaches, the analysts, and the staff have to tell you. That’s where the real information comes from,” he added.
With a career spanning nearly two decades, Ayew remains a key figure in football and continues to compete at the highest level with Le Havre in France’s Ligue 1.
by Emmanuel Atanga | Feb 11, 2025 | Africa, Europe, Ghana, International, Soccer
Amsterdam, Netherlands – Dutch-Ghanaian forward Don-Angelo Konadu made a game-changing impact off the bench as Jong Ajax edged Excelsior 3-2 in a thrilling Eerste Divisie encounter at Sportpark De Toekomst.
Excelsior struck first in the 22nd minute when Ryan van de Pavert inadvertently turned the ball into his own net. However, Jong Ajax roared back in the second half, with Ahmetcan Kaplan drilling home the equalizer in the 53rd minute before Rayane Bounida’s stunning curler put them ahead just four minutes later.
Excelsior responded swiftly as Ilias Bronkhorst leveled the score in the 60th minute, setting up a tense finale. But it was Konadu, introduced at halftime, who proved decisive in the 81st minute, setting up Skye Vink for the winner with a well-placed assist.
The victory narrowed Jong Ajax’s head-to-head deficit against Excelsior to three wins against six. With momentum on their side, they now turn their attention to a crucial clash against ADO Den Haag on February 14.
by Emmanuel Atanga | Feb 11, 2025 | Africa, Europe, Ghana, International, Soccer, USA
Charlotte, USA – Charlotte FC striker Patrick Agyemang has revealed his deep admiration for Ghanaian legend Asamoah Gyan, praising the former Black Stars captain for bringing joy and flair to the game.
The 24-year-old, who was born to Ghanaian parents, grew up watching Gyan’s iconic performances and celebrations. While he models his striking style after Thierry Henry’s finesse and Didier Drogba’s physicality, he credits Gyan for something unique.
“When it comes to the joy of the game, flair, and talent; Asamoah Gyan, he’s right there. Because every game he scores a goal, you don’t know what celebration he’s going to do, but it’s going to be some dance. I love that because you don’t see that too much in this game anymore,” Agyemang shared in an exclusive interview with Flashscore.
Agyemang had a breakthrough MLS season with Charlotte FC, scoring 10 goals and providing three assists. His impressive form earned him a call-up to the U.S. Men’s National Team (USMNT), where he marked his debut with a goal against Venezuela in the January training camp.
As he continues to rise in the MLS and international football, Agyemang carries Gyan’s influence with him, aiming to bring excitement and joy to the pitch just like his childhood idol.
