FORMER Black Stars of Ghana midfielder Sulley Ali Muntari has expressed disapproval of the technical team’s decision to appoint Mohammed Kudus as captain during Ghana’s 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) qualifiers.
The former Inter and AC Milan star described the move as premature, despite acknowledging Kudus’ leadership qualities and exceptional talent.
Kudus was handed the captain’s armband in October 2024 by head coach Otto Addo after regular skipper Thomas Partey withdrew from the squad due to injury.
The West Ham United star led the team against Sudan in doubleheader games, which ultimately shattered Ghana’s AFCON chances.
Muntari, a former Ghana international, argued that Kudus, though destined for future leadership, should not be rushed into the role.
“Kudus, no matter what is going to be the captain of the national team one day,” Muntari said in an interview with 3Sports.
“Let it be smooth for him, don’t just rush him. He doesn’t need the armband but he commands on the field. He carries the whole nation on his shoulder and he plays with us.
”So, what is your problem? You want to disturb him? I’m not saying you’ll worry him but let him be. Let him enjoy his football. Kudus has not yet seen his full potential. What we see is just a glimpse. Kudus is just amazing. As he continues to grow, he’ll be deadly”, he added.
Ghana’s national team will return to action in March 2024 for the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers, marking their first games since failing to secure a spot in the 2025 AFCON.
Eighteen-Eleven Media