Hearts of Oak head coach Aboubakar Ouattara has made it clear that no player will be begged to stay if they want to leave.
Ouattara emphasized that the club’s prestige and future ambitions take precedence over individual desires.
The 2020/21 Ghana Premier League champions are preparing for a fresh start after a challenging season.
Ouattara addressed the media on Thursday, July 25, 2024, and stated his focus on working with committed players who fit his strategic plans.
“Hearts of Oak is bigger than any player,” Ouattara declared.
He used an analogy to drive home his point, saying, “If my wife said she doesn’t like me anymore, I’ll open the door for her.”
Ouattara stressed the importance of building a strong team capable of competing for trophies soon.
“Hearts of Oak was created in 1911. It took almost 90 years to win the Champions League. Do you want to wait that long again for success?” he asked.
Ouattara emphasized that their project is not just to win the league tomorrow, but to be at the top.
He criticized the nature of contracts between Ghanaian players and clubs, highlighting the lack of professionalism in their timing.
“It’s only in Ghana that I see a player’s contract end in September or December,” he noted.
Ouattara believes that contracts should be more structured, saying, “It’s not normal for a contract to end just a week before the league starts. It’s not professional.”
As Hearts of Oak gear up for the new season, Ouattara’s focus remains on assembling a dedicated and capable squad.
He wants a team that aligns with the club’s long-term vision and aspirations.
Ouattara is determined to bring success back to the club, and his words echo his commitment to the cause.
Story by: Michael Seh
