The Ghanaian football team is one of the most celebrated African sides in recent history. Football being the most popular sport in the country, the Ghanaian men’s team have adopted the name “Black Stars”. Originally brought to the West African country by the British in 1903, Ghana is now one of the countries to produce top-class international players from Africa. The Country produces so much top talent you have super-agents such as Chris Nathaniel putting his focus on discovering talent from there. Here are some of the greatest Ghanaian footballers to grace the world.
Probably the best Ghanaian footballer of all time, Abedi Pele is the name that every Ghanaian and his uncle will swear by as being the best African football ever. A top attacking midfielder of his generation his European career began in France in 1986 for French side Chamois Niort. But he is most known for being part of the Marseille side that won two French Division 1 titles in 1991 & 1992 and the 1993 Champions League. Capped for the Black Stars 73 times, netted 33 goals. He also won many accolades during his playing career winning France football African player of the year 3 times & the African cup of nations golden ball in 1992.
Michael Essien makes this list for his sheer dominance on the football pitch during his prime. One of the best African players ever to play in the Premier League, Michael Essien was a monster in the centre of midfield. The Goals, the power, the engine; Essien had it all and helped Lyon to two back to back titles in 2004 & 2005 & put in stellar performances in the Champions League which saw him secure a £24.4 million move to Chelsea which made him the most expensive African player in history at the time. During his career, he helped Chelsea win two league titles, 3 F.A. Cups and 1 League Cup. He even showed his excellence for the Black Stars winning 50 caps and being undoubtedly the best player in the 2006 & 2010 World Cup.
Samuel Kuffour came to prominence when he became the youngest player in history to win an Olympic medal with the Black Stars, when he won the bronze medal in 1992 games. His most famous years was when he moved to Bayern at aged 17 where he stayed for 11 seasons. Boasting an illustrious career with the Bavarians winning 14 honours, he will be most remembered for displaying passion on the pitch which was shown when he banged the floor in frustration after the 1999 Champions League final loss to Manchester United. Kuffour earned 55 caps for Ghana and was included in the Top 30 African Players of All-Time.
