Former Ghanaian football star Samuel Osei Kuffour has shed light on the circumstances that led to his controversial departure from the Black Stars’ camp during the 2002 African Cup of Nations (AFCON) in Mali.
Speaking in a recent interview with Sporty FM, Kuffour stated that his decision was driven by a commitment to standing up for his teammates rather than personal grievances.
According to Kuffour, the national team faced severe logistical challenges during the tournament, including a lack of basic kits such as jerseys. In a bid to ensure his teammates had the necessary equipment, the former Bayern Munich defender took matters into his own hands and arranged for Adidas to provide shirts for the squad.
They know why I left camp at the 2002 AFCON in Mali. I wasn’t causing trouble—I stood up for what’s right. I did it for my boys, not myself. There were no shirts, so I arranged for Adidas to provide them, Kuffour explained.
His departure from the team during the tournament was widely discussed at the time, with some reports suggesting disciplinary issues. However, Kuffour’s recent comments indicate that his actions were motivated by a desire to advocate for better treatment of the players.
Kuffour, who enjoyed an illustrious club career with Bayern Munich, where he won multiple Bundesliga titles and a UEFA Champions League trophy, remains one of Ghana’s most respected footballers.