Honouring former Black Stars players is not mandatory - Emmanuel Agyemang-Badu
Former Ghana international Emmanuel Agyemang-Badu has said the country is under no obligation to honour former national team players, describing such recognition as a privilege rather than a requirement.
His comments come after Ketu North MP, Eric Edem Agbana, suggested that past players of the senior national football team deserve recognition for their dedication and sacrifices while representing the nation.
However, in an interview with Citi Sports, Agyemang-Badu acknowledged that it would be an honour for players to be celebrated by their country after retirement, but stressed that it should not be seen as mandatory.
According to the former midfielder, national recognition should be viewed as a privilege granted at the discretion of authorities rather than something players should expect.
He noted that while it would be gratifying for a player to complete his career with the national team and later receive recognition, it should not be considered a duty of the state.
Agyemang-Badu added that if the football authorities or national leadership decide to honour former players, he would fully support the gesture. However, he maintained that players should not feel entitled to such recognition if it does not happen.
The former Black Stars midfielder emphasized that footballers should concentrate on their careers and life after the game rather than expecting rewards from the country.
He concluded by saying that once a player has represented the nation and completed his duties on the pitch, the responsibility has been fulfilled, and recognition should remain optional.