Sulley Muntari Criticizes Decision to Name Kudus Black Stars Captain Prematurely
Former Ghana midfielder Sulley Muntari has questioned the decision to hand Mohammed Kudus the Black Stars captaincy during the team’s 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) qualifiers, arguing that it placed unnecessary pressure on the West Ham United playmaker.
Kudus was given the captain’s armband by head coach Otto Addo in October ahead of Ghana’s AFCON qualifying match against Sudan, a move Muntari believes was premature.
“Kudus, no matter what, is going to be the captain of the national team one day,” Muntari stated 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.”
The former AC Milan star stressed that Kudus already carries the weight of expectation from an entire nation and should be allowed to focus solely on his performance.
“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.”
Muntari, who played a key role in Ghana’s golden generation, further emphasized that the best of Kudus is yet to come.
“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.
