by Emmanuel Atanga | Dec 11, 2024 | Africa, Europe, Ghana, International, Soccer
Thomas Partey’s future at Arsenal is inching closer to resolution as the midfielder looks set to extend his stay at the Emirates. The 31-year-old Ghanaian international, in the final year of his contract, has impressed this season with 20 appearances despite his history of injuries.
Manager Mikel Arteta has been pivotal in pushing for Partey’s renewal, emphasizing his importance to the team. Arteta reportedly held direct talks with Partey, persuading him to focus on the club by stepping back from Ghana’s national team duties during last month’s fixtures to avoid injury risks.
This gesture appears to have solidified mutual trust between the player and the club. According to reports, Partey is expected to sign a two-year extension with a modest salary increase, potentially keeping him in North London until 2027.
While Arteta is determined to see the deal through, Arsenal’s board remains cautious about offering improved terms to a player entering his 30s. However, the manager’s faith in Partey and his performances this season may tip the scales.
by Emmanuel Atanga | Dec 11, 2024 | Uncategorized
After eight unforgettable years, Danish-born Ghanaian defender Kevin Mensah is bidding farewell to Brøndby IF, marking the end of an illustrious chapter in both his career and the club’s history.
Mensah, 33, joined Brøndby in January 2017 from Esbjerg fB and quickly became a pillar of the team. Known for his leadership, he served as vice-captain before eventually taking on the full captaincy, a role in which he thrived.
Over the course of 156 appearances in Brøndby’s iconic blue and yellow, Mensah etched his name into the club’s history. He was a key player in their 2018 Danish Cup victory over Silkeborg IF and played a vital role in their historic 2021 Superliga title win—the club’s first league triumph in 16 years.
Despite his successes, recurring injuries have hindered Mensah in recent years. This led to the club’s decision not to extend his contract, which expires on December 31, 2024.
Brøndby released a touching statement honoring their departing captain:
“Kevin has been a true leader and an integral part of our success. We wish him nothing but the best in the next chapter of his career.”
Mensah’s departure marks the end of an era for Brøndby IF, but his contributions to the club will remain unforgettable.
by Emmanuel Atanga | Dec 11, 2024 | AFCON, Africa, Europe, Ghana, International, Soccer
In a thrilling National League clash at Mangata Pay UK Stadium Meadow Park, veteran Ghanaian striker Kwesi Appiah showcased his class with a stunning second-half hat-trick to lead Boreham Wood to a commanding 3-0 victory over local rivals St Albans City.
The 34-year-old forward, once a revelation for the Black Stars during the 2015 Africa Cup of Nations, broke the deadlock on the hour mark with a towering header after a cagey first half. Appiah doubled the advantage just ten minutes later, latching onto a precise pass from Ilesanmi to slot home with finesse.
With the momentum firmly in Boreham Wood’s favor, Appiah sealed his hat-trick in style just two minutes later, curling a sensational effort past the St Albans goalkeeper.
Appiah’s remarkable performance marked his ninth goal in 14 National League matches this season, underlining his resurgence despite a career plagued by injuries. His display evoked memories of his exploits for Ghana nine years ago, where he impressed the continent with two goals and vital contributions in seven matches during the AFCON in Equatorial Guinea.
This emphatic victory solidifies Boreham Wood’s position in the league, while Appiah’s form continues to inspire both his club and fans.
by Emmanuel Atanga | Dec 11, 2024 | Africa, Europe, Ghana, International, Soccer
In a decisive move to nurture one of their brightest prospects, Chelsea Football Club is set to renew the contract of Ghanaian defender Josh Acheampong. The 18-year-old, a standout performer in the club’s U18 and U23 teams, has captured the attention of the coaching staff with his consistent displays of talent and composure on the pitch.
Acheampong’s performances last season, including a handful of appearances with the senior team, showcased his readiness for top-level football. His maturity and skill in defense have made him a rising star within Chelsea’s famed academy. Recognizing his potential, the club is eager to secure his services for the long term.
This move underlines Chelsea’s commitment to developing homegrown talent and providing them with pathways to the first team. Acheampong joins a legacy of academy graduates who have made their mark in professional football, and the youngster is poised to follow suit.
For Ghanaian football fans, Acheampong’s rise offers a beacon of hope, as they eagerly anticipate his progression into the senior squad and, potentially, international stardom.
With the new deal, Chelsea affirms its faith in Acheampong’s ability to become a cornerstone of their defense in the years to come.
by Emmanuel Atanga | Dec 11, 2024 | Africa, Ghana, Soccer
The National Sports Authority (NSA) has reassured fans that the Baba Yara Stadium pitch will be in top condition for the much-anticipated Super Clash between Asante Kotoko and Hearts of Oak this Sunday.
Concerns had arisen over the state of the pitch following Asante Kotoko’s FA Cup round-of-64 match against Future Stars. Ashanti Regional Circles Chairman Alex Manu had been vocal about the field’s deteriorating state. However, Patience Mensah, the NSA’s Public Relations Officer, addressed the concerns during an interview with Max FM, expressing confidence in the ongoing maintenance efforts.
“We prepared a maintenance plan after the Milo Games and have been working diligently to restore the pitch to its best condition,” Mensah assured. “The pitch was in great shape during the Milo Games, and while regular use leads to wear and tear, we’re confident it will be ready for this crucial match.”
Mensah acknowledged the challenges posed by hosting the Milo Games during renovation but emphasized the event’s importance in scouting young talent and promoting sports development.
Sunday’s clash promises to be a thrilling encounter as seventh-placed Asante Kotoko (18 points) take on sixth-placed Hearts of Oak (19 points), with both sides eager to keep their league title hopes alive.
