“My father wanted me to stop playing football”- Ibrahim Sunday recounts football journey

Ghanaian football legend and former Black Stars player, Ibrahim Sunday, has shared insights into the principles that guided him throughout his illustrious career.

As a midfielder,  he played the majority of his career for Asante Kotoko and was also a member of the Black Stars  participating in two AFCON tournaments.  He is the first ever African footballer to appear in the Bundesliga.

Speaking about his journey, the African football icon credited discipline, determination, and honesty as the pillars of his success.

“I was disciplined and determined. I was also honest in my career,” Sunday remarked, emphasizing the importance of personal values in achieving long-term success in sports and life.

He recounted how his father initially discouraged him from pursuing football, fearing it might not be a sustainable career path. However, it was a timely intervention from a family friend that changed his father’s mind and allowed him to continue chasing his dreams.

“My father wanted me to stop playing football. I agreed to stop playing for just a year but a friend of his pleaded with him to let me play,” Sunday revealed to Asempa FM.

Sunday also highlighted the value of honesty in earning support and trust from others.

“If you are honest, a lot of people will be willing to help you,” he said, encouraging young athletes to stay true to themselves and uphold integrity both on and off the pitch.

As one of Ghana’s most celebrated players, Ibrahim Sunday enjoyed a stellar career that included becoming the first Ghanaian to win the African Footballer of the Year award in 1971.

He also led Asante Kotoko to their historic CAF Champions League victory in 1970 as a captain and later contributed as a coach.