Black Stars head coach Otto Addo has emphasized that while national team players are open to constructive criticism, insults are unacceptable.
Addressing the media after Ghana’s 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) qualifier against Angola, Addo responded to questions about Abdul Baba Rahman’s absence from the national team, which has been attributed to past fan abuse.
He confirmed that there had been no change in Rahman’s situation.
Addo called on both media and fans to be more mindful in their criticism, stressing that insults harm not just the players but also their families.
“It’s okay to criticize when players or I make mistakes, but insulting them crosses the line,” Addo said.
“Players have families—wives, children, and friends—who are also affected by these insults. No player comes to the national team on their own; they are selected by the coaches. Therefore, it’s our duty to condemn any actions that tarnish the players’ reputation.”
