Ghanaian international and Black Stars defender, Mohammed Salisu, has issued a public apology for his recent altercation with a journalist following Ghana’s early exit from the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations.
Salisu, who plays for Monaco, was seen in the mixed zone after Ghana’s defeat to Mozambique expressing a desire to confront a journalist whom he believed had insulted him.
However, nearly a week after the incident, Salisu took to social media to express his regret and disappointment over Ghana’s performance in the tournament.
The 24-year-old defender acknowledged the team’s collective aspiration to win the trophy and voiced his frustration at their elimination during the group stage.
Despite the setback, Salisu assured fans of the team’s dedication and pledged a strong comeback for the nation.
In a statement on his Instagram, Salisu said, “My actions in the media were a result of frustration. We went to the 2023 AFCON with the aim of winning the trophy, but things didn’t go as planned.”
Salisu also addressed the fans’ right to criticize the team but emphasized that insults and threats were unacceptable.
He concluded with an unreserved apology to anyone offended by his actions, reiterating the team’s determination to bounce back stronger.
Following the apology, Salisu returned to action for Monaco, playing the full 90 minutes in their subsequent 2-2 draw with Olympique Marseille on Saturday.
Read Salisu’s full statement below:
It’s with deepest regret that I am writing to you about our disappointing campaign in the 2023 AFCON.
As you all know, we went with the intention of bringing the Trophy home but it was rather unfortunate that we were eliminated from the tournament in the group stage. We gave absolutely everything but we were unable to secure the necessary wins to keep us in the tournament.
Aside from that, I feel so disappointed that I couldn’t help my country to regain its past glory. With full assurance, we promise to come back stronger…for our beloved country.
My actions to the media were out of frustration. We went to the 2023 AFCON to win the trophy but things didn’t go as planned. Everyone will bear me witness, the last game was unacceptable, so the fans have every right to criticize us, but not to the extent of insult and threats.
Nevertheless, I want to render an unqualified apology to whoever I offended. We never wanted this result. We will come back stronger. Thank you for your tremendous support.
