Akonnor admits struggle to convince sons to play for Ghana

By Haruna Mubarak

 

Former Ghana captain C.K. Akonnor has opened up on the challenge of persuading his two sons to commit their international futures to the Black Stars, admitting that their upbringing in Germany makes the decision far from straightforward.

Akonnor, a revered figure in Ghanaian football, revealed that both Charles Herrmann and Jesaja Herrmann, who were born and raised in Germany, naturally feel a strong connection to the European nation where they developed as footballers.

“It’s difficult to convince them to come to Ghana,” Akonnor told Graphic Sports. 

“Because they grew up in Germany, but of course, if need be or if the opportunity arises, we will be able to make that decision.”

Twenty-year-old Charles Herrmann is the latest to take a step forward in his club career, having recently joined Belgian top-flight side Cercle Brugge, while his elder brother Jesaja, 25, has secured a move to German lower-division outfit FC Bocholt.

Both players have already represented Germany at youth level, featuring across several age categories including the U-16, U-17, U-19, and U-20 teams an experience that further underlines their deep ties to the German football system.

Despite the difficulty, Akonnor did not rule out the possibility of his sons one day wearing the famous red, gold, and green of Ghana, stressing that the door remains open should circumstances align.

The situation mirrors a growing trend in African football, where players with dual nationality must weigh emotional, cultural, and career considerations before choosing which country to represent at senior level. 

For Ghana, the potential addition of two Europe-trained talents would be a boost but for now, patience remains the watchword.