Ghanaian football legend Abedi Pele has voiced concerns about the current state of football in the country, following the Black Stars’ recent struggles on the international stage.
The three-time African Footballer of the Year’s comments were sparked by Ghana’s failure to qualify for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON). The Black Stars ended their campaign at the bottom of Group F, managing only three points without a single victory.
Reflecting on the challenges facing Ghanaian football, Pele—who was part of the Black Stars’ victorious 1982 AFCON team—lamented the decline in the sport’s performance and popularity, particularly at the local level. He noted that the current state of affairs cannot compare to the successes of past generations.
Speaking to the media, Pele stressed the need for unity and a renewed focus on rebuilding football in Ghana. “We’re talking about over three decades, and things have changed in many ways,” he remarked, as reported by Panafricafootball.
“Instead of dwelling on the past, we need to look ahead, work harder, and strive to achieve the goals we set for ourselves. To become a strong footballing nation, it’s essential to put our house in order and ensure we get the desired results. That’s the key to success anywhere in the world.”
Pele also highlighted football’s role in fostering unity, both within teams and across the nation, emphasizing its importance in strengthening Ghana’s identity and cohesion.
As Ghanaian football continues to face challenges, Pele’s call to action underscores the urgency for collaborative efforts to restore the sport to its former glory.
