Former Ghana international Emmanuel Agyemang-Badu has predicted a great future for Mohammed Kudus regardless of being omitted from the African Player of the Year shortlist.
The 24-year-old was left out of the list despite scoring 14 goals and managing six assists across 45 appearances in all competitions during his first season at West Ham United, where he helped the team secure ninth place in the English Premier League and reach the Europa League quarter-finals.
After three years at Ajax, Kudus transferred to West Ham on a five-year deal for an undisclosed fee, reportedly around €44.5 million (£38 million) with additional performance-related add-ons.
In doing so, he became the third Ghanaian to play for West Ham, following in the footsteps of John Paintsil and Andre Ayew.
His immediate impact at West Ham has been lauded by Agyemang-Badu, who believes that Kudus' current path could lead him to join the ranks of Africa's football greats.
"That’s my star player! He’s incredibly talented and exudes confidence, which I really admire. At such a young age, he has the potential to develop into an even better player,” Agyemang-Badu told Flashscore.
“Mistakes are a natural part of football, and he just needs encouragement and support. I truly believe he will become one of the greatest players to emerge from Africa.
"His transition from Ajax to West Ham was impressive; his first year was fantastic, and he performed exceptionally well. He chose a club that wouldn't place excessive pressure on him and matched his level of play. I believe he made an excellent decision.
"This year, he started off strong, but unfortunately, emotions got the better of him, resulting in a red card (against Tottenham).
“Being young, he will learn from this experience and improve. Gradually, we will see him progress and potentially join some of the greatest clubs in the world."
By: Pascal Amoah
