Former Ghana midfielder Sulley Muntari has openly criticized head coach Otto Addo for appointing Mohammed Kudus as Black Stars captain during the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) qualifiers.
With regular captain Thomas Partey sidelined due to injury, Kudus was handed the armband ahead of Ghana’s crucial doubleheader against Sudan.
However, the decision backfired as the Black Stars failed to qualify for the tournament, set to take place in Morocco later this year.
Speaking to 3Sports, Muntari acknowledged Kudus’ leadership potential but argued that the 23-year-old should not have been rushed into the role.
“Kudus, no matter what, is going to be the captain of the national team one day,” Muntari said.
“Let it be smooth for him, don’t just rush him. He doesn’t need the armband, but he commands on the field. He carries the whole nation on his shoulders, and he plays with us.”
The former Inter Milan and AC Milan midfielder emphasized that Kudus is still developing and should be allowed to focus on his game.
“So, what is your problem? You want to disturb him? I’m not saying you’ll worry him, but let him be. Let him enjoy his football. Kudus has not yet seen his full potential. What we see is just a glimpse. Kudus is just amazing. As he continues to grow, he’ll be deadly,” he added.
Following their AFCON qualification disappointment, Ghana will shift its focus to the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers, set to resume in March 2025.