For years, they entertained thousands of supporters, represented Ghana and earned admiration for their contributions to the country's football history.

But for some former players, life after football has brought a different reality, marked by health challenges, financial difficulties, and the struggle to find a new source of livelihood.

As such, this piece offers a glimpse into the difficulties some Ghanaian footballers face after their playing careers end.

Haruna Yusif

Haruna Yusif was part of Ghana's Africa Cup of Nations-winning teams in 1978 and 1982 and served as deputy captain of the Black Stars.

However, in February 2026, reports revealed that the former defender was battling chronic waist and leg ailments and could not afford surgery.

Yusif called for better support for former players, arguing that their contributions to the country deserved more than ceremonial recognition. He suggested that a monthly pension could help retired footballers facing similar difficulties.

Francis Coffie

Former Asante Kotoko winger Francis Coffie attracted public attention in 2025 after reports highlighted his difficult living conditions.

A video shared by former Hearts of Oak player Joseph Tagoe, popularly known as Bobby Short, showed Coffie appealing for financial assistance.

The reports described his cramped living space and difficulties making ends meet, prompting renewed debate about the welfare of former Ghanaian professionals.

John Quansah

John Quansah's story illustrates how quickly a promising football career can collapse.

The former youngster travelled to the Netherlands for opportunities with Ajax but suffered an injury that disrupted his progress.

Unable to fulfil his ambitions as a professional footballer, he eventually returned to Ghana and found work in construction.

In a report published by English outlet The Guardian, Quansah described earning about GH₵80 a day as a construction worker in Obuasi.

Edward Agyemang Duah

Former Black Stars defender Edward Nana Agyemang Duah, popularly known as Rambo, has faced prolonged health challenges after suffering a stroke.

Reports have documented his appeals for financial assistance to support treatment and rehabilitation.

In October 2024, the Ghana Retired Footballers Welfare Association visited him as part of an initiative to assist former players experiencing serious health and financial difficulties.

Alhaji Shitu Mouda

Former Great Olympics and Black Stars player Alhaji Shitu Mouda also experienced serious difficulties after his playing career.

The Ghana Football Association reported that Mouda had gone blind when then-president Kwesi Nyantakyi visited him. The visit prompted plans to establish a fund to support retired footballers struggling financially.

FKA/AM