Muntari Must Apologize To Coach Appiah

Sulley Muntari (28), the Serie A midfielder for AC Milan and Ghana international has been asked by the Ghanaian deputy sports minister, Mr Joseph Yammin, to apologize unreservedly to the Black Stars coach, Kwesie Appiah, over his gross disrespect to the coach, after he was substituted in the World Cup qualifier match in June.

The incident happened during the Black Stars World Cup qualifier away match against Lesotho. Muntari was very angry with the coach when he was substituted in the game, which they eventually won 2 - 0.

Sulley Muntari

"I think it is proper and right, for Sulley to apologize for his behaviour towards coach Appiah, in the Lesotho - Ghana game," Mr Yammin, said.

"Why am I saying this? He is a senior player, and should set a good example for the young players to follow."

"Discipline is key to every success story, and as we strive for our third World Cup appearance, we must ensure that we instill discipline in the team, by setting good precedents.

"It appears coach Appiah is not happy, and the earlier Muntari apologizes for his rude behaviour, the better it will be for him.

Mr Yammin, added, "In as much as we need him in the team, over looking what he did to the coach, will set a bad precedent, hence the need for him to apologize, to serve as an example to all the players."

In conclusion the deputy sports minister said, "He must apologize to coach
Appiah, before the Zambia game in Kumasi, if indeed he wants to return to the Stars fold. We must back coach Appiah to instill discipline in the team."

Ghana will be hosting Zambia, in the decisive World Cup qualifier match, on the 6th of September in Kumasi. The Black Stars are leading the group D table with 12 points, while Zambia is in second position with 11 points.
So Ghana needs a draw to qualify for the final play-offs, while Zambia needs a win to qualify for the play-offs.

I think what the minister's stance is correct. Many footballers especially some of the African players in Europe, don't respect their national coaches much, especially if the coach himself did not play football in Europe. Discipline is needed in every sphere of human endeavour.

 It is even needed in sports more due to arrogance which is twin brother of success. One strong indiscipline player can cause disruption in the team, especially, if it is coming from a senior player, who suppose to be a shining example to the junior players.

Sulley Muntari is a very important player in the Ghana National team, especially with the absence of Michael Essien, Kevin-Prince Boateng and Andre Ayaw. Muntari is a good player but it is not enough being a good player, he should also learn how to control his temper and lead by example.

I read where he, Muntari, said that he was angry, because he was not expecting the coach to substitute him in the match. But I think that was not a good reason to be rude to your coach. Does he do that to AC Milan coach whenever he is substituted? No. I have seen him substituted in Porthsmouth when he was in the EPL. I have also seen him, removed in a match in AC Milan. He just quietly come out of the field. I think he should apologize to Mr Appiah. What do you think. Should he apologize?