Appiah Reveals How Patriotism Distorted His Career At Juventus After Playing At 2004 Olympic Games

Former Black Stars captain Stephen ‘Tornado’ Appiah was part of the team which qualified Ghana U-23 football team at Athens Olympic Games in 2004.

Speaking on how he chose to play for Ghana at the tournament instead of Juventus, he told Nathaniel Attoh on Joy Sports Link.

“I was invited to the Juventus office and they said they didn’t want me to go to the Olympics. I said I love Juventus but my country comes first. I went to Athens and that was the end of my career at Juventus”.

“I said I love Juventus but my country comes first. I went to Athens and that was the end of my Juventus Career.”

Juventus barely fielded the Ghanaian upon his arrival from the Olympics having already acquired Brazilian Emerson as Appiah’s replacement.

The situation forced the ex-Ghana skipper to move to Turkish club Fenerbache

Despite Ghana’s failure to qualify from group B which includes Paraguay, Italy and Japan stages, Stephen Appiah scored two goals at the tournament and was named in the All-Star Team after the 2004 Olympic Games.

Appiah revealed that he wants to become manager of the Black Stars, but he is not in a rush because he is still taking his time to learn the trade of coaching.

“I don't believe in rushing to lead the team. I am still learning and gathering experience when the time is due I will take it up.

“There is no need to pick up badges and just rush to coach the Black Stars, I need to learn well and be prepared to take up the job one day if the opportunity comes,” he added.

According to Appiah, he has a lot to learn as a coach before taking up a big job since it comes with many challenges.

Appiah is regarded as one of the most successful captains for the Black Stars leading the team to its first-ever world cup.

Speaking on his leadership, the former captain said during his era there was nothing like camps in the team.

“There was nothing like Appiah camp or whoever in the team. We were united for purpose and we achieved that”.

Touching on his relationship with his former club Hearts of Oak, Appiah said, he is yet to receive a call from the Board of Directors to help in any capacity.

“I will be willing to go back and help Hearts because they gave me the platform to show my talent so if they invite me why not I will make my self available.