Former Ghana international Sulley Ali Muntari has opened up about his football journey, describing the game as the centre of his life and crediting discipline and relentless hard work for his success.
Speaking in a recent interview, the ex-Inter Milan and AC Milan midfielder reflected on the sacrifices he made from a young age to reach the top level of the sport, stressing that talent alone was never enough.
“Football was everything to me,” Muntari said. “I didn’t believe in excuses. It was about waking up every day, working hard, and giving everything I had, no matter the circumstances.”
Muntari, who rose from the streets of Ghana to become one of the country’s most accomplished midfielders, enjoyed a decorated career in Europe. He won the UEFA Champions League, Serie A, and multiple domestic honours with Inter Milan, and later featured for clubs in England, Spain, and Italy.
At international level, he earned over 80 caps for the Black Stars and played a key role in Ghana’s memorable run to the quarter-finals of the 2010 FIFA World Cup, scoring one of the tournament’s most iconic goals against Uruguay.
The former midfielder also spoke about the importance of mental strength, self-belief, and professionalism, urging young footballers to remain focused and committed in an era filled with distractions.
“Opportunities will come, but you must be ready,” he added. “Respect the game, respect yourself, and never stop working.”
Muntari’s story continues to inspire a new generation of Ghanaian footballers, serving as a reminder that determination, humility, and hard work remain the foundation of success in the beautiful game.
