Former Ghanaian football legend, Mohammed Ahmed ‘Polo’, has unequivocally clarified that he never made claims of being a better footballer than Lionel Messi during his illustrious career for both club and country.
Affectionately known as ‘Polo’ within football circles, the iconic figure expressed that his words were misconstrued by the media, leading to a misguided public perception.
The renowned Ghanaian and Hearts of Oak star, often hailed as the ‘dribbling magician’, is widely recognized as one of the most skillful and technically gifted footballers ever to emerge from his country.
Back in April 2011, a series of articles circulated, suggesting that Mohammed Polo had stated he was superior to the 23-year-old Messi, who was then widely regarded as the world’s top player. At the time, the former Barcelona and PSG attacking midfielder held the 2009 FIFA World Best Player title and had won the Ballon d’Or in both 2009 and 2010, drawing comparisons to legendary figures such as Diego Maradona and Pele.
“I, for instance, was such a skilled player with the ball, even better than Lionel Messi. I could perform numerous maneuvers with the ball that he is unable to do now. I observe his games regularly and hear people proclaiming him the greatest footballer of all time, but I disagree and hope that those who watched me would also share my perspective,” Polo was purportedly quoted as telling Sunyani-based Dinpa FM, as reported by ghanasoccernet.
However, Mohammed Polo has now refuted these claims, asserting that they are entirely false and should be treated with the disregard they deserve. He maintains that he was “misquoted” by the media for sensationalist purposes, motives known best to them.
“I never uttered those words; I did not say that – it was fabricated by individuals out there. They have the prerogative to interpret as they see fit, but I want to emphasize that I never asserted that I was superior to Lionel Messi,” Mohammed Polo clarified during an appearance on Angel Floodlight Sports, hosted by Saddick Adams.
Polo further emphasized that he remains unaffected by the situation, as everyone is entitled to their opinions.
The ‘dribbling magician’ was a vital part of Ghana’s 1978 squad that clinched the Nations Cup on home turf. He scored over 20 goals in more than 50 matches for the Black Stars between 1973 and 1985.
During his playing years, he prominently featured for Hearts of Oak in the Ghana Premier League and significantly contributed to the team’s renowned ‘Fearsome Five’ lineup that dominated opponents throughout the 1970s and 1980s.
Additionally, he showcased his skills in the 1980s while playing for Dubai-based Al Wasl, where he quickly became a fan favorite due to his exceptional talents.
