Former Ghana midfielder Emmanuel Agyemang-Badu has expressed optimism about the future of Mohammed Kudus, even though the talented player was not included in the African Player of the Year shortlist.
The Confederation of African Football (CAF) recently revealed a ten-man shortlist featuring notable players such as Nigeria’s Ademola Lookman, Morocco’s Achraf Hakimi, Guinea’s Serhou Guirassy, DR Congo’s Chancel Mbemba, and South Africa’s Ronwell Williams. Notably absent from the list was Kudus, who had a standout season with West Ham United, scoring 14 goals and providing six assists in 45 appearances. His impressive performances helped the club secure a ninth-place finish in the English Premier League and reach the quarter-finals of the Europa League.
Agyemang-Badu, who anticipated Kudus’s nomination, remains hopeful for his compatriot’s future and believes that this setback will only serve as motivation. He highlighted Atalanta’s Lookman as a potential successor to Victor Osimhen as Africa’s football king.
“I was hoping he would make the shortlist, but there were also many outstanding players who performed exceptionally well in Africa last year,” Agyemang-Badu told Flashscore. “Kudus is still young and has plenty of opportunities to be crowned Africa’s best. He just needs to stay focused, keep learning, and continue to grow. His time will come—it’s a marathon, not a sprint.”
He also praised Lookman’s contributions to both club and country, expressing his support for the Atalanta star to win the award.
“Without a doubt, one of my favorite players, Lookman, has been outstanding for both his club and country. I fully support him to win the award.”
Historically, the last Ghanaian player to win the African Player of the Year accolade was the legendary Abedi Ayew Pele in 1992. Notable players like Samuel Kuffour, Michael Essien, Asamoah Gyan, and Dede Ayew have all finished in the top three but have been unable to claim the honor.
Agyemang-Badu addressed the challenges that have hindered any Black Stars player from breaking this 32-year-old jinx. “We have been performing well, but not to the level required for nominations for this kind of award. Partey was making a strong push, but unfortunately, injuries hindered him significantly. It’s disappointing for us, but we still have young, talented players like Kudus and Abdul Fatawu. Right now, it’s time to support our Nigerian brothers. Our moment will come soon.”
