Former Black Stars captain C.K. Akonnor has detailed the challenges he faces in persuading his two footballing sons to represent Ghana, citing their German upbringing and established football identity as the main hurdles.
Both sons, Charles Herrmann (20) and Jesaja Herrmann (25), were born and raised in Germany and have progressed through the country’s youth national teams from U-16 to U-20 levels. Charles currently plays for Belgian top-flight side Cercle Brugge, while Jesaja has joined German lower-division club FC Bocholt.
Speaking to Graphic Sports, Akonnor said: “It’s difficult to convince them to come to Ghana because they grew up in Germany.” He noted that their sporting education, career development, and national identity have all been shaped within the German system.
Akonnor left open the possibility of a future decision: “But of course, if need be or if the opportunity arises, we will be able to make that decision.”
The situation highlights the common challenge faced by dual-nationality players, where cultural ties and career pathways often compete. While the sons have built their footballing lives in Europe, their father’s legacy as a former national team captain keeps the conversation about representing Ghana alive, awaiting the right circumstances for a potential future switch.
