Former Ghana U-17 defender Najeeb Yakubu has opened up about his decision to switch allegiance to Niger, citing a lack of love and appreciation from his native country.
The right-back, who was instrumental in Niger’s 2-1 victory over Ghana in the AFCON 2025 qualifiers, shared his emotional story in a recent interview with Joy Sports.
Najeeb Yakubu was a member of Ghana’s U-17 team, the Black Starlets, which made it to the finals of the U-17 AFCON, only to narrowly miss out on the title after a heartbreaking loss to Mali in the championship match but the lack of affection from Ghana led to a painful decision that has left many questioning his loyalty.
“I didn’t feel loved so I had to just go where I felt loved. And people were knocking even from this time, Niger. Because I went to Niger 2015 – 2014. From that time till 2022, they were calling my brother every time; we need Najeeb, we need Najeeb, we need Najeeb, we need Najeeb, we need Najeeb. So I had enough of this, so I had to go where I’m loved.” via Joy Sports.
Najeeb Yakubu’s journey to becoming a professional footballer has been marked by twists and turns. One encounter that still lingers in his mind is with Kurt Okraku, the current president of the Ghana Football Association (GFA). Yakubu recounts how Okraku, who was then the owner of Dreams FC, wanted him to join his team during his Under-17 days.
When I was in the Under-17, he [Kurt Okraku] wanted me to join his team, Dreams FC. Unfortunately, I couldn’t join his team [ and he took it personal].
Najeeb Yakubu currently plays for FC Prishtina in the Kosovo Super League, where he continues to showcase his skills and talent.
Source:
3news.com
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