Kevin-Prince Boateng has shed light on his abrupt exit from the 2014 World Cup in Brazil, suggesting that he was removed from the Black Stars camp for taking a stand against what he saw as wrongdoing by Ghana Football Association (GFA) officials.
Boateng, along with Sulley Muntari, was dismissed from the team’s camp the morning before Ghana’s final group-stage match, which they ultimately lost 2-1 to Portugal.
The German-born forward was reportedly accused of disrespecting coach Kwesi Appiah, leading to his expulsion, while Muntari was said to have assaulted Moses Armah, a member of the Black Stars’ management committee. While Muntari has since apologised, Boateng has now spoken out about the incident in an interview with former Manchester United legend Rio Ferdinand, sharing his side of the story.
“I got kicked out from the national team and Schalke in the same season,” Boateng recounted. He explained that during a meeting, he had criticised the Ghanaian officials, saying, “they can’t treat us like that” and suggesting that the players should receive fair compensation given the revenue generated. According to Boateng, this did not sit well with the officials, leading to his expulsion.
He further described receiving a letter under his door at 6 in the morning on the day of the crucial match against Portugal, instructing him to leave the team hotel within 15 minutes and surrender his credentials, effectively ending his participation in the tournament.
Boateng expressed disappointment that none of his teammates spoke up in support of his actions. He emphasised that his intent was not self-serving but rather aimed at benefiting the team as a whole.
Reflecting on the situation, Boateng admitted that he should have apologised to the GFA, as he holds great respect for Ghanaians and acknowledges their passion for football.
Kevin-Prince Boateng opens up on what led to him and Sulley Muntari being kicked out of the Ghana squad at the 2014 World Cup. Interesting revelation.
? @joelbortey pic.twitter.com/XttW83Gkuu
— Owuraku Ampofo (@_owurakuampofo) October 6, 2023
Born in Germany to a Ghanaian father, Boateng had committed to playing for Ghana before the 2010 World Cup, where he had a successful tournament, scoring two goals in 15 appearances for the national team. Since then, the 33-year-old forward has retired from professional football.