Former Black Stars player and 1978 Africa Cup of Nations winner Willie Klutse has issued a stern warning to young Ghanaian footballers seeking careers abroad: stay disciplined, stay focused, and understand why you left.
His comments follow reports that former Arsenal midfielder and current Black Stars vice captain Thomas Partey has been charged with two additional counts of rape by the UK's Crown Prosecution Service, bringing the total number of complainants in the ongoing case to four.
Speaking to Citi Sports, Klutse did not mince words.
"You have a reason why you want to play football, and based on it, you have travelled outside the country.
"Just keep your focus," he said.
The 1978 AFCON winner stressed that talent alone is not enough—character and the ability to heed advice are what separate those who succeed from those who stumble.
"When they advise you and you can't take it, why should we invest in your time and your career? So, they have to focus. They have to know why they travel; they have to know what they want out of football."
Klutse also emphasized the importance of planning for life beyond the pitch, reminding young players that a football career is fleeting.
"Because football, the latest is 15 years, and you are finished with football. Serious and active football for 15 years – you can't be the same. So, they have to keep their focus and know what they want out of football."
Partey, 32, now faces trial in November 2026 after denying all charges against him. His lawyer, Jenny Wiltshire, has stated that he continues to maintain his innocence and has cooperated with police throughout the investigation.
The Ghana international remains eligible for national team selection ahead of the 2026 FIFA World Cup, where the Black Stars are scheduled to face England in the group stage. Legal proceedings in the UK are ongoing.
For Klutse, the message to the next generation is clear: focus on why you left, and never lose sight of what you came to achieve.
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