Ex-Kotoko midfielder Maxwell Baakoh reveals why he has been able to settle in Algeria

North Africa has always been a difficult destinations for Ghanaian footballers but Maxwell Baakoh has been able to shine and impress in the Algerian league.

The former Asante Kotoko midfielder is enjoying a stellar progress in his career, having become the midfield controller for Algerian side, USM Khenchela.

Baakoh formerly played for Karela United in the Ghana Premier League where he showed enormous talent and displays which caught the attention of many Ghanaian football fans.

He later moved to Ghana Premier League giant Kumasi Asante Kotoko SC and played in the CAF Inter-continental championship for the Porcupine Warriors.

Having failed to make impact during his time with Egyptian side Ceramica Cleopatra, Baakoh has now emerged as one of the best midfielders in the Algerian league.

Speaking to Ghanasportspage.com, the 27-year-old attributed his standout performance to hardwork, discipline, dedication and determination.

“I am performing well here by the grace of God but is all about hardwork, discipline, dedication and determination. Playing in Algeria is nothing new to me because I’ve played in Egypt and Jordan,” the midfielder revealed.

He added: “I have made up my mind to do my best wherever I go. Is about discipline, dedication and my determination. It has helped me a lot. I always listen to the instructions of my coaches and my teammates because they play here.

“This is the most difficult season in my life because I lost my big brother and my grandmother also died just in two weeks so it was really difficult but I didn’t allow it to overcome me. I kept on going, kept my focus and patience.

“Most of the clubs I played against this season have showed interest in me because of my hardwork but we are waiting for the season to end,” the former Kotoko midfield dynamo said.

Baakoh arrived in the Algerian league in August 2022. He has since been featuring consistently for USM Khenchela, playing 20 league games with 3 goals.

The Ghanaian international will be expected to be in action when they take on Biskra on Tuesday.