Head coach of the Ghana national football team, Otto Addo, has expressed his appreciation for players who are unafraid to question decisions and show visible frustration after defeat, describing such qualities as crucial for success at the elite level.
Addo shared these thoughts on Wednesday, February 19, during a visit to the University of Ghana, where he addressed students from the Department of Physical Education and Sports at the Rugby Stadium. The session formed part of a special colloquium on Individual Player Development, designed to provide practical insights into the realities of top-level sport.
Drawing from his managerial experience, Addo explained that coaching determined and outspoken players has contributed significantly to his own development. According to him, players who can identify weaknesses—whether within their own team or in opponents—are often those who make the biggest difference on the pitch.
“I always say that, and I tell it to the other coaches, if the player can see the problems, with me as coach, problems, I know that they will pick the opponent’s problems.”
He emphasised that he values athletes who challenge him constructively and those who are visibly upset by losses, noting that such passion and accountability are traits needed to win matches at the highest level.
He added, “So I like these players. I like players who are going to challenge me, who are going to question me, or who are angry when they lose, because I know these are the players we need to win the game.”
Addo also encouraged students to pursue academic excellence alongside their sporting careers, stressing that education plays a vital role in the rapidly evolving sports industry and provides opportunities beyond active competition.
