Derek Boateng, a former midfielder for the Black Stars, has expressed his admiration for Kwesi Nyantakyi, the former Ghana Football Association (GFA) president, and has called for his return to lead the football scene.
Boateng, who had stints with Fulham and Elche, spoke highly of Nyantakyi’s achievements during his tenure, which were marked by significant milestones for Ghanaian football.
Boateng was saddened by Nyantakyi’s tenure being cut short due to the Number 12 exposé by journalist Anas Aremeyaw Anas, which tarnished his reputation. Despite the scandal, Boateng believes that Ghanaian football would have continued to prosper under Nyantakyi’s leadership.
“I wish Nyantakyi could return to oversee Ghana Football,” Boateng said in an interview with Accra-based Kingdom FM. “His achievements are well-documented, and it’s unfortunate how his time ended.”
He added that he couldn’t comment on the validity of the accusations against Nyantakyi since he wasn’t there, but his impact on the sport is undeniable.
“I can’t comment on the validity of the accusations against him since I wasn’t there, but his impact on the sport is undeniable.”
During Nyantakyi’s presidency, Ghana achieved significant milestones, including winning the U-20 World Cup and making its debut in the World Cup in Germany in 2006.
The Black Stars also participated in the 2010 and 2014 World Cups in South Africa and Brazil, respectively. Additionally, the team played in the 2010 and 2015 AFCON finals but failed to clinch the trophy.
“I wish Kwesi Nyantakyi could return to lead Ghana football again” – Derek Boateng
