Ghana’s ex-midfielder, Sulley Muntari, believes giving Mohammed Kudus the captaincy for the 2025 AFCON qualifiers puts unnecessary pressure on the talented midfielder, and he’s spoken out against it.
Otto Addo, the head coach, named Kudus the team’s captain before the Black Stars’ AFCON qualifying match against Sudan in October. This was after captain Thomas Partey withdrew due to a medical issue.
Kudus captained the Black Stars to a painful 2-1 loss to Niger in Accra in their last 2025 AFCON qualifying match.
Sulley Muntari told 3Sports he had doubts about the rushed decision, saying it unfairly burdened Kudus.
“Kudus, no matter what, is going to be the captain of the national team one day,” he said.
“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? Do 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.
While expressing reservations, Muntari recognized Kudus’ leadership abilities and potential, suggesting the West Ham star will eventually captain Ghana, but not prematurely.
Ghana will play in the 2026 World Cup qualifiers in March after missing the 2025 AFCON.