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Former Communications Director of the Ghana Football Association (GFA), Ibrahim Saanie Daara, has strongly criticized former Nigerian midfielder John Obi Mikel for disparaging the coaching abilities of ex-Black Stars coach Avram Grant. This comes after Mikel questioned Grant’s competence in a recent podcast, claiming that the Israeli lacked coaching acumen and mainly shared stories about Michael Jordan.
Avram Grant, who guided Chelsea to the Champions League and League Cup finals while contending for the Premier League title, faced an untimely termination of his contract despite these achievements. Responding to Mikel’s comments, Saanie Daara, now a senior CAF media officer, refuted the claims and urged Mikel to focus on post-retirement employment rather than disrespecting accomplished individuals.
“Mikel should stop disrespecting worthy people and find a job to do. A man with a top UEFA license, who excelled in coaching—leading Chelsea to the Champs League final, Ghana to the Afcon final, and reviving Zambia—can’t be operating just on luck. He must be doing something right,” stated Saanie Daara.
Highlighting Grant’s successful coaching career, including leading Ghana to the 2015 Africa Cup of Nations final, Saanie Daara emphasized Grant’s achievements and questioned Mikel’s assertions. Avram Grant, currently the head coach of former AFCON champions Zambia, continues to demonstrate his coaching prowess.
This exchange brings attention to the ongoing discussions surrounding football legends’ opinions on coaching styles, shedding light on the importance of recognizing and respecting the accomplishments of seasoned coaches.
